What is Linux Kernel (update)?

Every operating system uses a kernel in one form or the other. Without the kernel, it is almost impossible to have a working operating system. In general terms, the kernel is a software code that serves as a layer between the hardware and main programs that run on a computer.

The Linux kernel is the heart of a Linux operating system (OS) it serves as the primary interface between a computer's hardware and its processes. It communicates between the two and manages resources as efficiently as feasible.

The kernel is so named because it lives within the OS and handles all of the key functions of the hardware, whether it's a phone, laptop, server, or any other type of computer, much like a seed inside a hard shell.

Operating in its own realm known as kernel space, where it allocates memory and maintains track of where everything is stored. The userspace refers to what the user sees, such as web browsers and files. These apps communicate with the kernel via a system call interface (SCI).

Now, let’s look at the few characteristics of our Linux kernel.

The kernel has 4 jobs:

1. Memory management: Keep track of how much memory is used to store what, and where.
2. Process management: Determine which processes can use the central processing unit (CPU), when, and for how long.
3. Device drivers: Act as mediator/interpreter between the hardware and processes.
4. System calls and security: Receive requests for service from the processes.

The Linux kernel allows communication between the hardware via drivers included in the kernel or added via kernel modules and software.
It is also responsible for the efficient management of the system’s resources such as memory management, process and task management, and disk management. Thus, the kernel ensures that there is enough memory available for an application. It also makes sure that the processor works efficiently in running and completing tasks.

Unlike the hybrid kernels of Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X, the Linux kernel is monolithic. Monolithic kernels control the CPU, memory, inter-process communication (IPC), device drivers, file system management, and system server calls.

The stability of the Linux kernel has made it a key building block for many cloud computing infrastructures. Most cloud solution providers, including Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform, rely on Linux and open source solutions.

You can find information about current and previous releases of the kernel at www.kernel.org.