Symmetric multiprocessing from boot to virtualization. (7th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Denz, Robert; Brookes, Scott; Osterloh, Martin; Kuhn, Stephen; Taylor, Stephen
• Is Part Of: Software, practice & experience. Volume 48:Number 3(2018)
• Page Start: 681
• Page End: 718
• Publication Date: 2017-06-07
• Subjects: Computer software -- Periodicals; Computer programming -- Periodicals; Computer programs -- Periodicals; 005.3
• DOI: 10.1002/spe.2505
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-0644

Abstract

Summary: The x86 multicore processor architecture and the concepts associated with symmetric multiprocessing have become the linchpin of modern operating systems and cloud computing. A solid understanding of these technologies has become critical to any developer entering the field. Unfortunately, the complexity associated with discovering, enabling, using, and virtualizing multiple cores has created a paucity in the available documentation, transferable knowledge, and readable code exemplars. This paper describes our experience in overcoming these hurdles in the design of a from scratch, multi‐core operating system–– Bear ––for secure and resilient cloud computing. In particular, we trace the intricacies involved in the development of a multi‐core microkernel with an integrated multi‐core hypervisor. By exploring the implementation details, from bootstrapping through core virtualization to process scheduling, this paper aims to fill the knowledge gaps, highlight potential pitfalls, and introduce multicore development in a concise start‐to‐finish exemplar.