Description: The NMI watchdog is a kernel feature that monitors the system for hangs or failures using non-maskable interrupts. This functionality is crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of operating systems, as it allows for the detection of anomalous conditions that could lead to malfunctioning hardware or software. Being a non-maskable interrupt, the NMI watchdog takes precedence over other interrupts, meaning it can interrupt any running process to address critical situations. This is especially important in environments where availability and reliability are essential, such as servers and embedded systems. The NMI watchdog can be triggered by various events, such as hardware errors, memory failures, or system overload conditions. Its implementation allows system administrators to receive immediate alerts and take corrective actions before more significant damage occurs. In summary, the NMI watchdog is a vital tool for monitoring and maintaining system health, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly and effectively.
