Architecture of Linux Operating System
Let’s explore the architecture of the Linux operating system, focusing on its layers: hardware, kernel, shell, and applications.
Hardware Layer:
The hardware layer consists of physical components such as the CPU, RAM, and input/output devices.
Key components:
CPU (Central Processing Unit): The Linux kernel interacts with the CPU, executing instructions.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Primary memory used to store data and programs accessed by the CPU.
Input/Output Devices: Linux supports various input/output devices (e.g., keyboard, touchpad, monitor, printer) through device drivers.
Kernel Layer:
The kernel is the core of the operating system, serving as the foundation for other software.
Functions of the kernel:
Device Management: Handles device hardware, including device drivers and input/output operations.
Resource Management: Manages CPU processes and peripheral devices.
Memory Management: Allocates and manages memory for processes.
Shell/System Call Interface:
The shell provides a command-line interface (CLI) for users to interact with the kernel.
It interprets user commands and communicates with the kernel via system calls.
Shells include popular ones like Bash, Zsh, and Fish.
Application Programs and Libraries:
The application layer includes user-level programs and libraries.
Users run applications (e.g., web browsers, text editors) that utilize system services provided by the kernel.
Libraries (e.g., C libraries) provide common functions for application development.
Here’s a simplified diagram of the Linux architecture:
Last updated