System Calls
System calls are the fundamental interface between a user-level application and the operating system kernel, allowing programs to request services such as file operations, process management, and network communication. They provide a controlled and secure way for applications to access hardware resources and system functionalities that are otherwise restricted. In essence, system calls act as a bridge that enables software to interact with the underlying operating system.
Developers should learn system calls to write efficient, low-level code that directly interfaces with the operating system, such as in systems programming, embedded systems, or performance-critical applications. Understanding system calls is crucial for debugging, optimizing resource usage, and implementing features like inter-process communication, file handling, and memory management in languages like C or C++. It's also essential for roles involving operating system development, device drivers, or security analysis.