about L4

L4 is a an API for second-generation microkernels. Kernels based on the L4 API are very lean and feature fast, message-based, synchronous IPC, simple-to-use external paging mechanisms, and a security mechanism based on secure domains (tasks, clans and chiefs). The kernels try to implement only a minimal set of abstractions on which operating systems can be built flexibly. The current version of IoL4 uses the L4Ka implementation developed by the System Architecture Group at the University of Karlsruhe in collaboration with the DiSy group at the University of New South Wales, Australia. It is fully 32 and 64 bit clean, provides multiprocessor support, and super-fast local IPC and supports the following processors: Intel IA32 (Pentium and higher)

Intel IA64 (Itanium1)

PowerPC 32bit (IBM 750)

Alpha (21164)

MIPS 64bit (R4000, R5000)