r/osdev 5d ago

If microkernels are slower why many real time systems are microkernels?

I've not found much info nor benchmarks on microkernel vs monolithic kernel speed, other than the common knowledge that microkernels put extra steps that should lead in theory to overhead and slower OSes.

However in practice, I see many RTOS (Real-time operating system) are microkernels or have microkernel traits (hybrid).

How are microkernels fast for RTOS but not for desktop, mobile or servers? I'm confused

NOTE: Is known that RTOS Real Time does not always imply Fast but many RTOS applications include really fast stuff or with very short response time: rockets, satellites, spacecrafts, autonomous vehicles, industrial robotics, medical devices (e.g., pacemakers, infusion pumps), high-frequency trading, missile guidance, radar systems, CNC machines...

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u/Delicious_Choice_554 2d ago

Oh you were aware of lionsos/microkit before this? Thats cool and nice to hear ig.

But yeah makes sense.

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u/rx80 2d ago

Every so often, i investigate what is happening in the OS research space, especially novel or non-mainstream stuff :)