Kernel Flashcards
What is the role of the kernel in an operating system?
The kernel provides the interface between software and hardware
The kernel acts as a bridge allowing communication between the hardware and software applications.
How can the kernel be conceptualized in relation to interrupts?
The kernel can be thought of as a set of interrupt service routines
These routines handle various types of interrupts generated by hardware and software.
What are interrupts?
Electrical signals generated by hardware that is connected to an interrupt controller
Interrupts signal the processor to stop its current activities and execute a specific routine.
What are traps in the context of the kernel?
Traps are handled the same as interrupts but trap signals are generated by software
This allows software to communicate with the kernel in a similar manner to hardware interrupts.
What does IRQ stand for?
Interrupt Request Lines
IRQs were originally designed as a single wire per peripheral device.
What happens when an interrupt occurs in relation to the processor?
An interrupt automatically switches the INTEL (or AMD) processor into a privileged mode
This allows the kernel to perform critical operations without restrictions.
What is the function of processor control in the kernel?
Creates the illusion that several processes are running at once
This is essential for multitasking in modern operating systems.
What does the kernel do when an interrupt occurs?
Saves the exact state of the running process
This state is restored when the process can run again, ensuring continuity.
What is the purpose of scheduling in the kernel?
Decides which process gets to run and which ones get to wait
This is crucial for managing CPU resources efficiently.
What are the two types of memory control in the kernel?
Kernel memory and user memory
This distinction helps in managing access and protection between different processes.
What is the difference between paged memory and real memory?
Paged memory allows for non-contiguous memory allocation, while real memory is the actual physical RAM
Paged memory enables more efficient use of memory resources.
What is swap space in the context of the kernel?
A designated area on disk used when physical memory is full
Swapping helps manage memory usage by temporarily transferring inactive processes to disk.
What does I/O control in the kernel manage?
Access to disks, keyboard, mouse, monitor, USB
I/O control is vital for facilitating communication between the user and the computer’s hardware.
Fill in the blank: The kernel handles _______ which are electrical signals generated by hardware.
interrupts
True or False: Traps are generated exclusively by hardware.
False
Traps are generated by software.
