Microkernel Architecture with Suitable Diagram
Micro-Kernel
A micro-kernel is a software program, loaded in main memory, It performs some of the functions of the operating system. So the size of the operating system can be reduced. Micro-kernel provides process scheduling, memory management, and communication services. Initially, the micro-kernel approach is used in the ‘MAC‘ operating system, then it is populated after that this approach used in windows 2000. A micro-kernel is a minimal operating system that performs only the essential functions of an operating system.
Micro-kernel Architecture
In the Micro-kernel Architecture is essential and main operating system functions should be executed in the kernel mode. Remaining all, means fewer essential services and applications are built on a microkernel and executed in user mode. Whereas in an ordinary operating system like ‘Layered operating systems‘, all the essential functions are executed in kernel mode only.
Advantages of Microkernel Architecture
1. Portability: Portability is the main feature of Microkernel that can be suitable for any type of system.
2. Flexibility: The Microkernel Architecture is flexible.
3. Uniform Interface: Microkernel design imposes a ‘uniform interface’ on request made by a process.
4. Extensibility: The Microkernel Architecture can incorporate new services as well as new hardware devices.
5. Reliability: TAs the size of the software product increases, the reliability will decrease. Here, the micro-kernel reduces the size of the operating system. So, reliability will increase.