Linux kernel

How large, on average, is the Linux kernel, and how large is the Linux kernel process when it runs in system memory? Is the Linux kernel typically a single process or multiple processes? Finally, what is the definition of multi-threaded (e.g. a multi-threaded process)?

On average, the size of the Linux kernel can vary depending on the specific version and configuration. However, as a rough estimate, the compressed source code of the Linux kernel is around 100-200 MB. After compilation, the uncompressed size of the kernel can range from a few megabytes to tens of megabytes.

When the Linux kernel is running in system memory, it is not represented as a single process. Instead, it is divided into multiple processes and threads, each responsible for different tasks and functionalities. The Linux kernel follows a modular design, with various subsystems and components implemented as separate kernel modules, which can be dynamically loaded and unloaded as needed.

A multi-threaded process refers to a process that contains multiple threads of execution within a single address space. Threads within a process share the same memory, file descriptors, and other resources, allowing for efficient concurrent execution. These threads can communicate with each other more easily than processes running in separate address spaces. In a multi-threaded process, each thread can perform a specific task independently while sharing resources with other threads in the same process.