ntkrpamp.exe and ntoskrnl.exe: What are their Functions?

[Stoney]

I would like to know what the Windows core drivers ntoskrnl.sys and ntkrpamp.exe actually do. I know they are essential and I have seen many people with BSOD minidump files list these are probable cause.

But in my research (I did a lot of research) I can't find any definitive information on their function(s) within the OS. Can anyone enlighten me please?

Thanks.

[mjc]

Umm...they are the OS...or at least a main parts of it. Especially ntoskrnl...

[Stoney]

mjc, I know they are essential core Window drivers but what I meant to ask, and obviously I failed to be clear in what I was asking, is what their function is.

I belong to another Tech forum and I read minidumps and I see these these driversall the time as cited as possible cause. What I have been searching for is what do they do? In other words, by knowing what their function is it can point possibly to where the problem lies.

For example, tcpip.sys comes up a lot but that has to do with networking/intenet and it is a core windows driver. I making this as clear as mud. aren't I? :D

[mjc]

No, you made yourself clear...those two files along with about a dozen or so more ARE Windows. They are a bit more than 'essential' drivers. They comprise the core of the OS itself...the 'kernel'. As such, they don't have a single function but many.

[Stoney]

Ah, thank you! You were trying to say that earlier but I failed to understand. I learned something new which is always a good thing.

I just read 10 minidumps and 9 of the 10 cited this driver which told me something significant was happening with his OS. Thus, my searching for an answer.

It is much appreciated. Thanks again and for the time.