Formal Models of Operating System Kernels

Operating systems kernels are central to the functioning of computers. Security of the overall system, as well as its reliability and responsiveness, depend upon the correct functioning of the kernel. This unique approach – presenting a formal specification of a kernel – starts with basic constructs and develops a set of kernels; proofs are included as part of the text.

The kernel of any operating system is its most critical component, the remainder of the system depends upon a correctly functioning and reliable kernel for its operation – what is more, a kernel that has security flaws can be exploited by malicious users. Kernels are notoriously complex and hard to understand.

The purpose of this book is to show that the formal specification of kernels is not only possible but also necessary if operating systems are to achieve the levels of reliability and security that is demanded of them today. Specifications of a sequence of kernels of increasing complexity are included, acting as models to enable the designer to identify and reason about the properties of the design – thus making explicit that which is too often left implicit or even unknown. A considerable amount of reasoning is included, showing what can be inferred about a design; and in addition, essential properties of data structures and mechanisms are discussed and the properties of these proved. Also included as an essential aspect of the activity, are the interfaces to the hardware and the processes running on them.

It is very easy to get bogged down in complexity issues when considering kernels, but this book’s prescriptive rather than descriptive approach shows how the kernel of an operating system can affect both the reliability and performance of these systems in a clear and concise style.

Iain is a fellow of the BSC and has a PhD in Computer Science.