Difference Between Kernel and Operating System

In this post, we will understand the difference between Kernel and an Operating system −

Operating System

• It can be understood as a system software.

• It provides an interface between the user and hardware.

• It provides security as well.

• A system requires an operating system to run.

• There are different types of operating systems: it includes single user and multiuser OS, multiprocessor OS, real-time OS, distributed OS.

• It is the first program that loads when a computer boots.

Kernel

• It is system software.

• It is a part of the operating system.

• It provides an interface between the application and the hardware.

• It helps with memory management, disk management, process management and task management.

• All operating systems require a kernel to run.

• There are different types of kernel- it includes Monolithic and Micro kernel.

• It is the first program that loads when an operating system loads.