OOM (Out-of-Memory) Killer
This diagram explains the Linux OOM Killer mechanism:
- Memory Request Process:
- A process requests memory allocation from the operating system.
- It receives a handler for the allocated memory.
- Memory Management System:
- The operating system manages virtual memory.
- Virtual memory utilizes physical memory and disk swap space.
- Linux allows memory overcommitment.
- OOM Killer Operation:
- When physical memory becomes scarce, the OOM Killer is initiated.
- The OOM Killer selects and terminates “less important” processes based on factors such as memory usage and process priority.
- This mechanism maintains the overall stability of the system.
Linux OOM Killer is a mechanism that automatically activates when physical memory becomes scarce. It maintains system stability by selecting and terminating less important processes based on memory usage and priority.
With Claude
Lechuck Park 