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(Redirected from Kernel mode)CPU modes (also called processor modes or privilege levels, and by other names) are operating modes for the central processing unit of some computers that place restrictions on the operations that can be performed by the CPU.
Mode types
At a minimum, any CPU with this type of architecture will support at least two distinct operating modes, and at least one of the modes will provide completely unrestricted operation of the CPU. The unrestricted mode is usually called kernel mode, but many other designations exist (master mode, supervisor mode, privileged mode etc. ). Other modes are usually called user modes, but are occasionally known by other names (slave mode etc. LynxLab > software > store. ).
In kernel mode, the CPU may perform any operation provided for by its architecture. Any instruction may be executed, any I/O operation may be initiated, any area of memory may be accessed, and so on. In the other CPU modes, certain restrictions on CPU operations are enforced by the hardware. Typically certain instructions are not permitted, I/O operations may not be initiated, some areas of memory cannot be accessed etc. [KU] :: KULT Underground n5 - SCACCHI :: Chess Master 4000 (Federico Malavasi).