Is there any small kernel good enough for learning osdev? [closed]

Question

I would like to learn more about osdev. So I thought about learning from other small kernels to get better at osdev. Is there any good kernel for learning osdev? Of course it needs to be GPL so I can have access to source code and have the freedom to modify it.

Aid

Answer 1

1. FreeRTOS is as small as it can get. The kernel image is just 4K-9K! It is an RTOS but it will give you a fair idea about OSs in general too!

2. Minix is another that many prefer! Though its not that small but its quite popular in education circles!

3. FemtoOS might also interest you!

4. TinyOS also serves a similar purpose!

Most of what I've listed come from the embedded world. Because thats where size and simplicity matter!

Footloose

Answer 2

http://www.stanford.edu/class/cs140/projects/pintos/pintos.html

PintOS is another addition to the above. Very simple framework and implementation is extremely simple to understand. Popularly used to introduce students to OS design and implementation.

Nullify

This is a really lightweight build. It's a shame I can't get it to run. – Brittne

Answer 3

It's not a kernel as such, but a tutorial for writing your own, so maybe you'll find it helpful:

Roll your own toy UNIX-clone OS

EDIT: The above link is no longer valid. Try this instead.

Penang