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Implementation of a Kernel Extension (KEXT)

Kernel extensions are implemented as bundles, folders that the Finder treats as single files. See the chapter about bundles in Mac OS X Technology Overview for a discussion of bundles.The KEXT bundle can contain the following:

• Information property list—a text file that describes the contents, settings, and requirements of the KEXT. This file is required. A KEXT bundle need contain nothing more than this file, although most KEXTs contain one or more kernel modules as well. See the chapter about software configuration in Mac OS X Technology Overview for further information about property lists.

• KEXT binary—a file in Mach-O format, containing the actual binary code used by the KEXT. A KEXT binary (also known as a kernel module or KMOD) represents the minimum unit of code that can be loaded into the kernel. A KEXT usually contains one KEXT binary. If no KEXT binaries are included, the information property list file must contain a reference to another KEXT and change its default settings.

• Resources—for example, icons or localization dictionaries. Resources are optional; they may be useful for a KEXT that needs to display a dialog or menu. At present, no resources are explicitly defined for use with KEXTs.

• KEXT bundles—a kext can contain other KEXTs. This can be used for plug-ins that augment features of a KEXT.

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