What operating system architecture patterns and design decisions should you know?

Here's an overview of some key patterns and design decisions. Virtual Memory: Uses disk space as an extension of RAM. It allows for larger processes to run than what would fit in physical memory. Examples include LRU (Least Recently Used) and FIFO (First-In-First-Out). File Allocation Methods: How files are stored on disk, e.g., contiguous allocation, linked allocation, and indexed allocation. Directory Structure: Hierarchical, flat, or tagged directory structures. File System Types: FAT32, NTFS, ext4, etc. Polling vs. Interrupts: Polling is when the CPU continuously checks the status of a device, while in interrupts, the device signals the CPU. Device Drivers: Software interfaces that allow the OS to interact with hardware devices.

My opinion is that there is no definitive answer to which architecture is better, as it depends on the goals and requirements of the operating system and its users. Some operating systems, such as Linux and Windows, use a hybrid approach that combines elements of both architectures to achieve a balance between efficiency and flexibility.

I am going to add my perspective towards to Security. How complex is to secure a Monolithic architecture and Microkernel? Also, considering the complexity, what is worth to avoid and to tackle? The complexity of securing or the complexity of maintaining it? To me security is worth the hassle for the complexity as you can think of Monolithic as a complex layer, it's hard to maintain yes, but it can be hard for the attacker to explore all the services that compose your whole architecture. On the other way round if you go for the Microkernel, speaking about Security again, there is one downside for us Security Architects - It has only one "SYSTEM". Basically, if you lose it, you lose it all! This is a big RISK for SECURITY perspective.

Some operating systems, such as Linux and Windows, use a hybrid approach that combines elements of both architectures to achieve a balance between efficiency and flexibility. The choice between monolithic and microkernel architectures involves trade-offs between performance, modularity, and complexity.

The choice between monolithic and microkernel architectures involves trade-offs between performance, modularity, and complexity. Monolithic kernels tend to offer better performance but can be harder to maintain and upgrade. Microkernels provide greater modularity and flexibility but may have slightly lower performance due to increased communication overhead. The decision often depends on the specific use case and priorities of the operating system design.

Containers and Virtualization: Unveiling Isolation In the art of crafting operating systems, the decision between containerization and virtualization casts a decisive spell, shaping the environments where applications breathe and flourish. Virtualization is a master illusionist, conjuring virtual machines from the ether. These machines transcend physical constraints, embracing diverse operating systems and applications in their ethereal arms. The allure lies in their versatility and the fortress-like walls they erect between host and guest. Yet, behind this grand spectacle, the hypervisors pull strings, demanding their share of resources and weaving layers of complexity.

Containerization, a different act altogether, assembles applications within nimble containers. These entities leverage the host's kernel and libraries, creating an ecosystem where efficiency and speed shine. The simplicity of this narrative, however, isn't without its complexities. Containers, though light on their feet, need the host's favor for compatibility and security.

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Preemptive (real-time) vs non-preemptive kernels (non-realtime) Reentrancy in OS is a major design consideration. Preemptive kernels can be context switched out when working for a particular application in favor of another app. Such kernels are needed for real-time systems where delays can create system-wide issues.

many people are actually involved day to day in OS architecture and design. These questions are bullet points that get unrelated comments because the questions or statements have no real meaning.