Second Edition.
Intermediate - Advanced Level Users.
Includes CD-ROM.
The Linux kernel is at the heart of the Linux operating system. Programmers can correct bugs and add features to Linux installations by modifying the source code. However, they must first understand how it works and why it works the way it does.
Line-by-line, this book examines the Linux kernel version 2.4 in depth, with corresponding commentary. It explores selected components of the kernel in detail including the memory manager, process scheduler (along with the change in structure), and interprocess communication.
The book covers changes from kernel version 2.2 and expanded coverage of signal handlers and 'itimers', plus added coverage of notifier chains. It includes additional selected system calls and expanded memory coverage, including the slab allocator and the lazy buddy allocator.
The book features extensive cross-referencing and architectural flow charts to enhance understanding of the structure of the code.
