User Mode vs. Kernel Mode
A processor in a computer running an OS operates in two different modes: user mode and kernel mode.
- The processor switches between these modes depending on the type of code it’s executing.
The difference is that certain instructions can only be executed in kernel mode (and this is baked into the hardware).
User Mode
User mode
- Less-privileged mode
- User programs typically execute in this mode
Kernel Mode / System Mode / Control Mode
System mode, control mode, or kernel mode
- More-privileged mode
- Kernel of the operating system