microkernel
Bare-bones OS foundation
A microkernel is an operating system design that keeps the kernel—the core component that manages hardware and system resources—as small as possible.
Unlike traditional monolithic kernels that include device drivers, file systems, and other services, a microkernel handles only the most essential functions like memory management and inter-process communication, pushing everything else into user space.
This architecture theoretically improves stability and security since a crashed driver won't bring down the entire system, though it can introduce performance overhead from the additional communication between components.
Divisibility into independent units
- serversMachines providing network resources
- protectionGuarding against harm
- isolationComplete separation from others
- schedulingAssigning times to events
One favoring bare essentials
- lightweightLacking mass or importance
- compactTightly packed together
- bare-bonesReduced to essentials
- streamlinedMade smooth and efficient
modular · lean · simple · elegant · orthogonal · extensible · maintainable · verifiable
Virtual machine management layer
- LinuxOpen-source operating system kernel
- reliabilityConsistent, predictable performance
- securityProtection from threat
- fault-toleranceAbility to withstand malfunctions
Occurring without processing delay
- low-latencyMinimal transmission delay
- responsivenessReadiness to react
- throughputProcessing rate over time
- deterministicCompletely caused by prior conditions
Mach
Sonic speed ratio
modularity
Divisibility into independent units
- serversMachines providing network resources
- protectionGuarding against harm
- isolationComplete separation from others
minimalist
One favoring bare essentials
- lightweightLacking mass or importance
- compactTightly packed together
- bare-bonesReduced to essentials
streamlined · modular · lean · simple · elegant · orthogonal · extensible · maintainable · verifiable
hypervisor
Virtual machine management layer
- LinuxOpen-source operating system kernel
- reliabilityConsistent, predictable performance
- securityProtection from threat
real-time
Occurring without processing delay
- low-latencyMinimal transmission delay
- responsivenessReadiness to react
- throughputProcessing rate over time
deterministic · safety-critical · automotive · avionics · predictable