Microkernels Meet Recursive Virtual Machines

This paper describes a novel approach to providingmodular and extensible operating system functionality and encapsulated environments based on a synthesis of microkernel and virtual machine concepts. We have developed a software-based virtualizable architecture called Fluke that allows recursive virtual machines (virtual machines running on other virtual machines) to be implemented efficiently by a microkernel running on generic hardware. A complete virtual machine interface is provided at each level; efficiency derives from needing to implement only new functionality at each level. This infrastructure allows common OS functionality, such as process management, demand paging, fault tolerance, and debugging support, to be provided by cleanly modularized, independent, stackable virtual machine monitors, implemented as user processes. It can also provide uncommon or unique OS features, including the above features specialized for particular applications' needs, virtual machines tran...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 1996
• Where: OSDI
• Authors: Bryan Ford, Mike Hibler, Jay Lepreau, Patrick Tullmann, Godmar Back, Stephen Clawson
• Keywords: Operating System, OSDI 1996, Recursive Virtual Machines, Virtual Machine, Virtual Machine Concepts