For a computer, both the operating system and kernel play an important role. Both the components are doing justice with their work. The operating system helps in managing computer software and hardware resources whereas the kernel converts the user query into the machine language. Let’s analyze the major differences between operating systems and kernel.
What Is an Operating System?
An operating system is one of the most important components that helps in managing computer software and hardware resources. It allows your computer to serve properly. Basically, this system software allows you to communicate with your computer.
What Is Kernel?
A kernel is a vital computer program and the core element of an operating system. It has complete control in the system as it converts the user request into machine language.
Difference between Operating System and Kernel
| S.No. | Operating System | Kernel |
| 1. | An operating system is one of the most important components that helps in managing computer software and hardware resources. | Kernel is a core element of the OS that converts the user query into the machine language. |
| 2 | It is like system software. | It is system software which is an important component of the operating system. |
| 3 | One major purpose of an operating system is to bestow security. | The main purpose of a kernel is to manage memory, disk and task. |
| 4 | It provides an interface between hardware and user. | It provides an interface between application and hardware. |
| 5 | Without an operating system a computer cannot be run. | Without a kernel, an operating system cannot be run. |
| 6 | Single OS, multiuser OS, multiprocessor OS, real time OS, and Distributed OS are the types of operating system. | Monolithic and Micro kernels are the types of kernel. |
| 7 | It is the first program to begin when the computer boots up. | It is the first program to start when the operating system runs. |
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