eduOS

eduOS is a real operating system project for kids, starting from a freestanding kernel and boot process.

This repository currently includes:

• A bootable 64-bit kernel (_start) built with a linker script.
• Limine bootloader integration.
• ISO image generation for BIOS/UEFI boot.
• QEMU run target for local testing.

Why eduOS

The long-term goal is an OS where students can:

• Learn core CS concepts by interacting with system components.
• Write tiny programs in a safe sandbox.
• Explore graphics, files, and networking in age-appropriate lessons.

Current Project Layout

• src/kernel/main.c: Kernel entrypoint and first terminal output.
• linker.ld: Freestanding kernel memory layout and entry symbol.
• config/limine.conf: Boot menu configuration.
• Makefile: Build, ISO packaging, and QEMU run commands.

Prerequisites (Linux)

Install build tools and emulator:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y make git xorriso qemu-system-x86

Install or provide a freestanding toolchain:

• Preferred: x86_64-elf-gcc and x86_64-elf-ld
• Alternative: clang + ld.lld (see command below)

Build

Default build (cross-compiler):

make iso

Build with clang/lld targeting freestanding ELF:

make clean
make CC=clang LD=ld.lld CFLAGS='-std=gnu11 -ffreestanding -fno-stack-protector -fno-pic -m64 -mno-red-zone -O2 -Wall -Wextra --target=x86_64-elf'

Output files:

• build/eduos.elf
• build/eduos.iso

Run (QEMU Graphic)

make run-gui

You should see a QEMU window, the Limine boot entry, then the eduOS kernel banner.

Run (QEMU No Graphic / Headless)

make run-headless

This mode uses QEMU debug console output (port 0xE9) so the kernel banner appears directly in your terminal.

Quick Start

make iso
make run-gui
# or
make run-headless

Development Roadmap

Phase 1: Kernel foundations

• Interrupt descriptor table (IDT) and exception handlers.
• Physical + virtual memory management.
• Timer and simple cooperative scheduler.

Phase 2: Learning-first user environment

• Text-mode shell with kid-friendly commands (learn, draw, math, code).
• Tiny bytecode interpreter for beginner coding lessons.
• Virtual file system for lesson packs and saved projects.

Phase 3: Safety and classroom features

• Sandboxed app model.
• Teacher control panel and lesson deployment.
• Activity logs and progress tracking.

Phase 4: Hardware and polish

• Graphics mode with educational UI.
• Input/audio/network drivers.
• Installer image and release process.

Notes

• The repository clones Limine into .limine/ during build.
• This is an early kernel prototype intended to grow into a complete OS.