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Why two kernels?

Discussion in 'Windows XP' started by PCFarmer, 2008/06/21.

  1. 2008/06/21
    PCFarmer

    PCFarmer Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi,

    I was looking in directory c:\windows\system32 and noticed that there are two kernel files, ntoskrnl.exe (renamed from ntkrnlmp.exe) and ntkrnlpa.exe (renamed from ntkrpamp.exe).

    Why are there two kernel files? I checked the registry and PAE support is disabled.

    PCFarmer
     
    PCFarmer,
    #1
  2. 2008/06/21
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    Strictly speaking they are not both kernel files despite the naming .....

    ntoskrnl.exe is a critical process in the boot-up cycle of your computer - ntoskrnl.exe should not be disabled, required for essential applications to work properly.
    ntkrnlpa.exe is a process associated with Microsoft® Windows® Operating System from Microsoft Corporation. ntkrnlpa.exe is not a critical component.
     
    PeteC,
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  4. 2008/06/21
    PCFarmer

    PCFarmer Inactive Thread Starter

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    What is the role of ntkrnlpa.exe? Presumably it has been installed for some purpose.

    PCFarmer
     
    PCFarmer,
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  5. 2008/06/21
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    This is the best I can come up with ....
     
    PeteC,
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  6. 2008/06/21
    PCFarmer

    PCFarmer Inactive Thread Starter

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    Many thanks for that PeteC.

    Regards PCFarmer
     
    PCFarmer,
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  7. 2008/06/21
    WhitPhil

    WhitPhil Inactive

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    From this definition, it would appear that ntkrnlpa.exe will run, if you have PAE support enabled.
     
    WhitPhil,
    #6

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