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microkernel

Vangie Beal
Last Updated May 24, 2021 8:03 am

A microkernel (abbreviated 5K or uK) can be considered a compact kernel as it performs only the basic functions universal to all computers. Designed to be integrated into different operating systems, a microkernel works with OS-specific servers that provide higher level functions. A microkernel is a component-based structure which improves portability at the expense of performance.

See also kernel.