Chapter 2 – System Architecture

Core idea

The OS is centered around the kernel, which controls all system resources.

Key components

• CPU – Executes instructions
• Memory (RAM) – Fast, volatile storage for running programs
• Storage – Persistent (HDD/SSD), slower than RAM
• Network – Communication via NIC and protocols
• Kernel
  • Core of the OS
  • Manages CPU, memory, devices
• User tools
  • Shells, GUIs, utilities (top, ps, etc.)

Important distinctions

• Kernel ≠ entire OS
• OS = kernel + user-space tools

Exam traps

• Kernel vs OS
• Who manages hardware? → Kernel