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A computer kernel is the core of an operating system that manages the computer's resources, acting as the essential bridge between software and hardware. Its main functions include process management (allocating CPU time), memory management, device management (communicating with hardware like printers and network cards), and handling system calls and I/O operations. Kernels are crucial for system stability, security, and performance.

Core functions

Process Management: The kernel manages how programs (processes) use the CPU by scheduling their execution and allocating time slices, which allows for multitasking.

Memory Management: It keeps track of how much memory is used, where it's located, and allocates it to processes while keeping them separate to prevent data corruption.

Device Management: The kernel acts as an intermediary between software and hardware, using device drivers to communicate with components like the hard drive, keyboard, and network card.

System Calls and Security: It provides an interface for applications to request services from the OS (system calls) and enforces security by separating user-level applications from the privileged "kernel mode" where the core OS code runs.