System Call
/ˈsɪs.təm kɔːl/
noun — “the polite way your program asks the OS for a favor.”
System Call is an interface provided by the operating system that allows user-level processes to request services from the kernel. These services can include file operations, process management, memory allocation, network communication, and hardware access. By using System Calls, applications can safely interact with low-level resources without compromising system stability or security.
Kernel
/ˈkɜːr.nəl/
noun — “the secret sauce that makes your operating system actually work.”
Kernel is the core component of an operating system that manages system resources, coordinates hardware and software interactions, and provides essential services for all other software. Acting as a bridge between applications and physical hardware, the Kernel handles process scheduling, memory management, device drivers, and system calls, ensuring that each task gets what it needs safely and efficiently.