OS architecture (monolithic, microkernel, hybrid) in Operating Systems - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a monolithic kernel in OS architecture?

A monolithic kernel is a type of operating system architecture where all core services like file management, device drivers, and system calls run in a single large block of code in the kernel space. This design allows fast communication but can be less stable if one part fails.

beginner

How does a microkernel differ from a monolithic kernel?

A microkernel runs only the most essential services in the kernel, such as communication between hardware and software. Other services like drivers and file systems run in user space. This makes the system more stable and secure but can be slower due to more communication overhead.

intermediate

What is a hybrid kernel in OS architecture?

A hybrid kernel combines features of both monolithic and microkernels. It runs some services in kernel space for speed and others in user space for stability. This aims to balance performance and reliability.

beginner

Why might an OS use a microkernel design?

An OS might use a microkernel design to improve stability and security. Since most services run outside the kernel, a failure in one service is less likely to crash the whole system.

beginner

Give an example of an operating system that uses a monolithic kernel.

Linux is a well-known example of an operating system that uses a monolithic kernel, where many services and drivers run inside the kernel space.

Which OS architecture runs most services in user space to improve stability?

A Monolithic kernel

B Microkernel

C Hybrid kernel

D None of the above

Microkernels run most services like drivers and file systems in user space, which helps improve stability.

What is a key advantage of a monolithic kernel?

A Faster communication between services

B Runs all services in user space

C Smaller code size

D Better security by isolating services

Monolithic kernels run all core services in kernel space, allowing faster communication.

Which kernel type tries to balance speed and stability?

A Monolithic kernel

B Exokernel

C Microkernel

D Hybrid kernel

Hybrid kernels combine features of monolithic and microkernels to balance speed and stability.

Linux uses which type of kernel architecture?

A Monolithic kernel

B Hybrid kernel

C Microkernel

D Nanokernel

Linux uses a monolithic kernel architecture.

What is a downside of microkernel design?

A All services run in kernel space

B Less stable system

C Slower communication due to more message passing

D Hard to add new drivers

Microkernels can be slower because services communicate via message passing between user and kernel space.

Explain the main differences between monolithic, microkernel, and hybrid OS architectures.

Think about where services run and how that affects speed and stability.

Why might an operating system choose a hybrid kernel over a pure monolithic or microkernel design?

Consider the trade-offs between speed and stability.