Linux kernel utility programs are another one of the main Linux OS (kernel) components. These are independent binary files that reside on the hard disk and are used to

perform specific functions.

Utility programs are automatically “called” (run) by the kernel to deliver a service to the kernel. They're not application software programs, such as a word processor or spreadsheet.

Linux OS - Library Files

The Linux OS makes extensive use of library files (a.k.a. libraries) that contain program code in binary form (binaries).

Library files are accessed by the OS and other programs and supply them with a collection of commonly used software routines (parts of programs). These routines are “code” that is required on a regular basis.

This is an efficient method of providing commonly used software routines to multiple programs.

Here's how a library works: a block of code is stored in a central location (a library file) so that the same code doesn't have to be repeated in numerous programs. This saves on disk space.

In addition to this, libraries are accessed and loaded into memory only when needed - instead of being loaded in memory all the time. And this reduces the memory being used.

Libraries supply routines that are needed for many functions, whereas a kernel utility program is typically used for one specific function.

Linux OS - Device Driver Software

Device driver software provides the “interface” that is used by the OS to communicate with various hardware devices in the system.

For example, there are many different video circuit boards (a.k.a. video cards, graphics cards) that can be used in your system. A device driver "interprets" the communications from the OS to your graphics card so that the card can display information on your screen.

When you install Linux, you specify the manufacturer and model of your graphics card and then the installation routine selects and installs the device driver that your system needs.

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