Inside Linux




What is Kernel? Explain with an example. 

o    The core of the LINUX system. Loaded at system startup (boot). Memory-resident control program.

o    Manages the entire resources of the system, presenting them to you and every other user as a coherent system. Provides service to user applications such as device management, process scheduling, etc.

o    Example functions performed by the kernel are:

§  Managing the machine's memory and allocating it to each process.

§  Scheduling the work is done by the CPU so that the work of each user is carried out as efficiently as is possible.

§  Accomplishing the transfer of data from one part of the machine to another

§  Interpreting and executing instructions from the shell

§  Enforcing file access permissions 

o    You do not need to know anything about the kernel in order to use a LINUX system. These details are provided for your information only. 

What is Shell? Explain with an example.

o    Whenever you log in to a Linux system you are placed in a shell program. The shell's prompt is usually visible at the cursor's position on your screen. To get your work done, you enter commands at this prompt.

o    The shell is a command interpreter; it takes each command and passes it to the operating system kernel to be acted upon. It then displays the results of this operation on your screen.

o    Several shells are usually available on any LINUX system, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

o    Different users may use different shells. Initially, your system administrator will supply a default shell, which can be overridden or changed. The most commonly available shells are:

§  Bourne shell (sh)

§  C shell (csh)

§  Korn shell (KSH)

§  TC Shell (tcsh)

§  Bourne Again Shell (bash)

o    Each shell also includes its own programming language. Command files, called "shell scripts" are used to accomplish a series of tasks.

 ·         Utilities 

o    LINUX provides several hundred utility programs often referred to as commands.

o    Accomplish universal functions

§  editing

§  file maintenance

§  printing

§  sorting

§  programming support

§  online info etc.

o    Modular: single functions can be grouped to perform more complex tasks

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