Minix vs Linux for Learning Operating System Design?

Question

I wish to learn operating system design. I was wondering if I should tackle Minix or GNU/Linux in the process? I like books so I would be following mainly a book, though video resources (presumably videotaped lectures) would also be welcome.

I have formally studied C and C# and can program small to medium sized programs in them. I also have a very basic understanding of data structures.

If I take the Minix route, should I tackle version 2 (simpler??) or version 3?

Answer 1

I would go for the Minix route, just because of my personal experience with it. Minix is very straightforward, and written from an educational point of view. Linux kernel on the other hand has been around for so long, and is therefore optimized heavily. I do not think that it is a good start.

I wouldn't worry too much about which minix version. The concept remains the same. With the newer versions you are able to run X on it, which can be helpful, but at the same time adds more complexity. Just go with the version you find a good book of.

Answer 2

Operating Systems: Design and Implementation covers Minix, so this might a good argument pro Minix.

Without having touched this topic myself, Linux is rather large (last time I checked 10 millions line+, though of course you would not have to study all of it), and Minix uses a microkernel architecture with separate modules, so it might be easier to grasp.

I would go for Minix.

(on the other hand, O'Reilly has a number of books on Linux; but I think I would still go with Minix, having that phat book as the reference)