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HN · KernelCurated

An interactive map of the Linux kernel

Summary

Konstantin Boldyshev arranges the subsystems, interfaces and source directories of the Linux kernel in a navigable architecture map. The map can be used interactively in the browser. Many elements link to documentation or source code.

Ideas

  • The map links functional blocks with the corresponding source paths.
  • System calls form the transitions between applications and kernel.
  • Drivers connect hardware to shared kernel subsystems.
  • Networking, memory and processes appear as interconnected areas.

Insights

  • Spatial models make it easier to get into large source trees.
  • Architecture diagrams stay useful when they lead directly to verifiable code.
  • Subsystem boundaries show the likely hand-over points in troubleshooting.

Facts

  • The project is publicly available on GitHub.

Recommendations

  • Use the map as an entry point and confirm details in the current source tree.
  • Follow one system call through several of the layers shown.

References

Read the original article

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