At Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:04:39 +0000, ad%NetBSD.org@localhost wrote:
Subject: Re: kern/41668: MONOLITHIC should probably also be included in HEAD
builds
>
> The monolithic kernel an aid for people developing core kernel code,
> compiling their own kernels, and generally playing about in areas where one
> can shoot oneself in the foot rather easily. I have never had the need for
> it but I can see the utility.
>
> When considered in the frame of a NetBSD release it offers nothing.
> Releases are all about a shipped product for end users ... unless the
> landscape has changed so dramatically that releases are all about us
> hackers and our toys, which would be a desperately sad state of affairs.
Well, seriously, I think for NetBSD the primary focus is, and should be,
on those who use the source code, not those who use the official binary
builds.
I say this from both the practical side of things considering the actual
installed base of NetBSD users, etc., as well as from the philosophical
side considering the stated official goals of the project.
Indeed it is very nice that the project does do the necessary
engineering to support full binary releases and upgrades, with deep
consideration to all the issues this entails (including even the
implementation of modular kernel support), however I personally see this
as more of a proof of concept that can be used by those of us who then
take the source code and build our own binary releases for use by our
own customers.
Finally even if my view of the installed base of NetBSD users is
completely wrong (despite the fact that casual surveys at events like
BSDCan confirm my claims), I think there's still a place for MONOLITHIC
kernels in the release sets since their presence will offer another
"built-in" option for users who do run into trouble upgrading.
--
Greg A. Woods
Planix, Inc.
<woods%planix.com@localhost> +1 416 218-0099 http://www.planix.com/
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