Windows Kernel Documentation

Introduction

This document provides a detailed overview of the Windows kernel architecture, covering its core components and key concepts.

The kernel is the foundation of the operating system, managing system resources and providing essential services.

Core Components

The Windows kernel is comprised of several key components:

• The Kernel Core: The heart of the kernel; handles core system functions.
• Memory Management: Responsible for allocating and freeing memory.
• Process Management: Creates, schedules, and manages processes.
• Device Drivers: Manage communication with hardware devices.
• Security Kernel: Provides security features, such as access control.

Key Concepts

Virtual Memory: Allows the system to manage memory in a way that allows multiple processes to use memory.

Interrupts: Handle requests from hardware devices.

System Calls: Provide a standard interface for applications to request services from the kernel.

Link to Kernel Source

For a deeper understanding, you can find the Windows kernel source code available at: https://github.com/microsoft/Windows/blob/master/windows/windows.c

Link to Documentation

Further documentation can be found on the official Microsoft documentation: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-api/windows-kernel-api