Understanding the FreeBSD kernel

[TomAmundsen]

Hi,

I am new to FreeBSD, but not to *nix systems in general. I have a B.S. in Computer Science, so I had to use Linux in college for several courses. However, I didn't specialize in Systems, but would like to learn more detail about that now.

I'm wondering what is the best way to go about understanding the FreeBSD kernel? I found a book called - 'Design of the UNIX Operating System' by Bach - is that likely the best place to start?

There is a book called - 'Understanding the Linux Kernel' by Bovet and Cesati - but there doesn't seem to be any equivalent for BSD...? That is essentially what I am looking for.

Thanks!

[deemon]

"The Design and Implementation of FreeBSD Operating System" by McKusick and Neville-Neil is what you want. It's based on FreeBSD 5.2 kernel.

[drhowarddrfine]

I have that same Bach book but most of it applies to Unix System V, I think(?) and not BSD. You will find the McKusick book mentioned above to be an excellent book, though.

[phoenix]

These should help get you started:

• Amzon.com search for FreeBSD
• Introduction to FreeBSD 6 Kernel Hacking
• Writing a kernel module for FreeBSD
• FreeBSD Developer's Handbook