Explain the difference between user space and kernel space of the operating system.

User space and kernel space are two modes of operation of the operating system, dividing the level of access and execution rights of code.

• User space is the memory area where application programs run. Processes here have limited access rights, which protects the system from accidental or malicious actions. Programs cannot directly access hardware or critical resources.

• Kernel space is the memory area where the operating system kernel runs with full privileges. The kernel manages resources, hardware, processes, and ensures security. It can perform operations that are not accessible from user space.

Transition between these spaces occurs through system calls, which allow user programs to request kernel services in a safe manner.