Teaching kernel programming using Knoppix

Authors:
Donald Johnson
Affiliations:
Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA
Venue:
Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges
Year:
2006

Citing 3
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Understanding the Linux Kernel, Second Edition

Understanding the Linux Kernel, Second Edition
Experiences teaching operating systems using virtual platforms and linux

Proceedings of the 36th SIGCSE technical symposium on Computer science education
Knoppix Hacks

Knoppix Hacks

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Abstract

The traditional platforms for teaching kernel programming have several disadvantages, including expensive hardware, disk partitioning, lack of current documentation, and obsolescence. Knoppix allows a free real Linux system that each student can use without installation, and without affecting permanently installed systems, such as Linux or Windows. With a floppy disk flashdrive, or hard disk partition to maintain programmer files, students can write, modify, and test kernel modules with relative ease. There are several caveats involved with Knoppix, including its slowness and idiosyncracies of data storage and device mounting. The UMSDOS filesystem can be used to permit a real UNIX filesystem superimposed on an MSDOS filesystem, such as a floppy disk. Example startup script commands demonstrate the flexibility and ease of use of Knoppix as a kernel programming platform.