Trying to make the Linux kernel easier to understand through comparisons

This is Taku from the System Solutions Department.

Among the questions covered in LPIC201, which I recently took, I would like to take a slightly different approach to understanding the Linux kernel, which is difficult but personally interesting to me.

What is Linux kernel?

First of all, the Linux kernel is the core part of the OS.

• Process management
• Memory management
• Device management
• File system access
• Interface with hardware
• Handling system calls
• Managing kernel modules

They play a variety of roles.

However, the scale is large, and when you look at each person's role and work, it can be difficult.

 

I will use a comparison here to get an idea of ​​the overall structure of the Linux kernel

It is easier to understand if you imagine it with something familiar to you,

This time, I will make a comparison with my field of interest, the central nervous system.

I got interested in the relationship between nerves, muscles, and movement after learning a little bit about neurophysiology when I was a student, and coupled with my experience in track and field, I like reading books related to this.

Does looking at a bookshelf like that connect with the human central nervous system? Because I felt that way, I would like to summarize it in a comparative form (limited to the scope of questions in LPIC201).

What the Linux kernel and the central nervous system have in common

Linux kernel customization and brain plasticity

Linux kernel functionality can be adjusted by adding or removing kernel modules as needed.

This means that the Linux kernel is customizable, adapting itself to new tasks through "training" (by adding new kernel modules).

This is similar to brain plasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to change when learning new things or having new experiences.

For example, when track and field athletes train to improve their records and adapt their bodies to faster paces, new neural circuits are formed and existing neural circuits are strengthened.

Kernel module management and neuroplasticity

Loading (activation) or unloading (deactivation) of kernel modules

When new hardware is connected, the corresponding kernel module is loaded to recognize and use the new hardware. This is similar to how when new information enters the brain, new neural circuits are activated to process that information.

For example, when a sprinter learns a new movement, neural circuits in the brain's motor, sensory, and prefrontal cortex are activated and restructured.

Device-kernel interaction and nervous system sensor functions

Hardware devices (keyboard, mouse, sensors, etc.) are abstracted as special files that provide information to the Linux kernel.

The way a device and the kernel interact and transmit information from the hardware to the system is similar to how our sense organs transmit information from the environment to the brain.

For example, marathon runners collect important information during a race through their sense organs (visual, auditory, and tactile) and use this information to set their pace.

Kernel behavior and nervous system awakening at system startup

The kernel controls the system boot process. This is similar to the process by which our nervous system transitions into a state of wakefulness when we wake up.

For example, a track and field athlete stands on the starting line of a 100m race. The kernel "wakes up" all parts of the system and prepares them for a new "race" (computer task).

Differences between the Linux kernel and the central nervous system

method of communication

Communication between processes and devices within the Linux kernel uses well-defined protocols and interfaces in the form of digital signals.

In the human central nervous system, however, communication between neurons occurs through chemicals (neurotransmitters) and electrical signals.

repair and recovery

Linux kernel problems are fixed by debugging, patching, or system upgrades.

On the other hand, if the damage to the central nervous system is severe, it often does not fully recover. Treatment options are limited.

abstractness of sensation

The Linux kernel accepts data from input devices in the form of concrete digital data (such as RGB values) and processes that data according to programmed instructions.

On the other hand, the human central nervous system processes analog information taken in through the five senses and converts it into various abstract concepts (such as ``color,'' ``sound,'' and ``scent.'') This process is extremely complex, involving experiences, learning, memory, emotions, etc.

summary

Although they may seem different at first glance, the mechanisms behind both are surprisingly similar, as they both serve as core entities that play a central role in their operations.

Comparing things can sometimes give you unexpected insights, so it might be interesting to try making a comparison like this once in a while.