Linux Architecture

Linux is a hardware independent architecture derived from UNIX. It is divided into three levels. They are user, kernel and hardware levels. The hardware level contains device drivers and machine specific components. The kernel level is a mix of machine-dependent and machine-independent software. The user level is a collection of applications, like shells, editors and utilities.

These levels may be thought of like the wheel of an automobile.

• The hardware and device drivers present a stable set of POSIX compliant definitions to support many types of kernels, like an axle hub supports the diameter and width of tires.

• The kernel interfaces with the hardware and device drivers and presents a stable set of POSIX compliant interfaces to support standard UNIX application programs, like a rim supports certain types of rims.

• The application programs enable the users to accomplish meaningful work with the hardware, like getting from place to place.