Nutzerprogramme

Nutzerprogramme, also known as user programs or user-space applications, are software programs that run in the user space of an operating system. This is in contrast to kernel programs, which operate in the privileged kernel space. User programs are designed to interact with the user and perform specific tasks, such as word processing, web browsing, gaming, or media playback. They are subject to the restrictions imposed by the operating system's kernel, which manages system resources and ensures security.

When a user program needs to access hardware or perform a privileged operation, it must make a system call to the operating system's kernel. The kernel then handles the request on behalf of the user program, ensuring that it is done safely and efficiently. This separation of user space and kernel space is a fundamental concept in modern operating systems, providing stability and security by preventing user programs from directly manipulating critical system components.

The vast majority of software that users interact with on a daily basis are user programs. They are developed by third-party vendors or by the operating system developers themselves and are installed and executed by the end-user. The operating system acts as an intermediary, providing a consistent environment and set of services for these programs to run.