Kernel

The kernel is a computer program at the core of a computer’s operating system and generally has complete control over everything in the system.

  • Portion of OS that is in Main Memory
  • Contains most frequently used functions
  • Also called the nucleus
  • Embedded OSs are often only a nucleus

How does the kernel know which task is currently executing?

What is the kernel of an OS?

Typical functions of an OS Kernel: