Linux Kernel Development: Understanding Its Internals

The Linux kernel is the heart of countless systems, from embedded devices to massive cloud servers. Understanding its inner workings is crucial for anyone looking to truly master Linux or develop at a deeper system level. This course provides a comprehensive, text-based introduction to the Linux kernel, guiding you through its fundamental concepts and architecture. By the end, you will possess the foundational knowledge required to navigate kernel source code, understand its key subsystems, and approach basic kernel development tasks with confidence. What you'll learn: Understand the fundamental architecture and design principles of the Linux kernel. Explore key kernel subsystems like process management, memory management, and file systems. Learn how to navigate and interpret the Linux kernel source code structure. Apply basic kernel module development techniques to extend kernel functionality. Grasp the essentials of modern kernel tracing and observability using eBPF. Familiarize yourself with the Linux kernel development and patching workflow. The course begins with an exploration of core operating system concepts and the kernel's role, then progressively delves into its major components. You will read about process scheduling, virtual memory, device drivers, and I/O, culminating in practical approaches to kernel interaction and development. This course is designed for absolute beginners with a basic understanding of Linux user-space commands and C programming. No prior experience with kernel development or advanced system programming is required. Begin your journey into the fascinating world of the Linux kernel today.