For sure, and Windows is not a microkernel, but it does have separated kernel-in-kernel and executive layers; it would approach being a microkernel architecture if the executive was moved into userland. This is similar to how macOS would be a microkernel, if everything wasn't run in kernel mode (mach, on which it is partially based, is a microkernel).
Of course the issue here is that after NT 4, GDI has been in kernel mode; this is necessary for performance reasons. Prior to that it was a part of the user mode Windows subsystem.
I'd be curious to see if GDI moved back to userland would be acceptable with modern hardware, but I suspect MS is not interested in that level of churn for minimal gain.
Of course the issue here is that after NT 4, GDI has been in kernel mode; this is necessary for performance reasons. Prior to that it was a part of the user mode Windows subsystem.
I'd be curious to see if GDI moved back to userland would be acceptable with modern hardware, but I suspect MS is not interested in that level of churn for minimal gain.
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