The NeKernel System - A Primer (1)

Abstract

This blog will lead you through the basics of the NeKernel operating system, its architecture, and its use cases.

NeKernel by example: The Systems Architecture

NeKernel is designed with a modular architecture that allows for easy customization and scalability. The core components include:

• Microkernel: Handles low-level tasks such as memory management, process scheduling, and inter-process communication.
• User Space: Contains user applications and services that run on top of the microkernel.
• Device Drivers: Modular drivers that can be loaded and unloaded as needed, providing support for various hardware components.

NeKernel by example: The ErrorOr monad

One of the key features of NeKernel is its robust error handling mechanism using the ErrorOr type. This type encapsulates either a successful result or an error, allowing for safer and more predictable code.

Those error codes are defined in the KPC protocol. Which is located at KPC.h

ErrorOr<PTEWrapper> pteWrapper = Pmm.GrabPage(addr);

if (pteWrapper.HasError())
{
    return /* Your error handling goes there. */
}

Uses cases of NeKernel

• Base OS: NeKernel can serve as the foundation for various operating systems, providing a stable and efficient core.
• Embedded Systems: Its modular design makes it suitable for embedded systems where resources are limited
• Research and Development: NeKernel's open architecture allows researchers to experiment with new OS concepts and designs.

Implementation

The implementation of NeKernel is open-source and can be found on GitHub: NeKernel System Repository.