Minix - A truly small OS with source
8/10/2007
I have always been fascinated with operating system design. Many would think to look at Linux because it comes with source. Even if you limit yourself to the kernel though, Linux is huge. I had heard of Minix before, but erroneously thought it was just a tiny distro of Linux.
On a whim while waiting on some other tasks to run I did a quick check on Minix. In fact it is not a distro of Linux at all, but instead existed prior to Linux and was used in some ways to create Linux itself. Both Linux and Minix are Unix like, but aside from that they differ greatly.
The Minix kernel is a mere 4,000 lines of code and is designed for reliability. Minix uses a microkernel architecture which differs from Linux's monolithic kernel.
What I Like
- The Raccoon - This has no technical basis whatsoever, but the raccoon has always been my favorite animal. When I was young we had one as a pet. After researching Minix and then discovering its logo is a raccoon, it just kind of "sealed my interest".
- Microkernel - I deliver a lot of conference talks about reliable software. As a core idea, I believe much of software development today is flawed in its process. The idea of an operating system focusing on reliability at the kernel level is extremely appealing to me.
- BSD License - There were many reasons I chose a BSD license for the Indy Project. Its simple, clean, and not restrictive. Minix 3 uses a BSD License as well.
- Minimal - When studying an operating system or building your own, the ability to comprehend it is a huge feature. Minix because it is so small meets this requirement perfectly.
More Information
<< Previous Entry Next Entry >>
Use my contact form to contact me directly.
