API, ABI, ISA in operating systems

What is ABI?

Application Binary Interface works as an interface between the operating system and application programs in the context of object/binary code.

ABI handles the followings;

  • Calling conventions
  • Data type
  • How functions arguments are passed
  • How functions return values retrieved
  • Program libraries
  • The binary format of object files
  • Exception propagation
  • Byte ordering
  • Register Use

What is the API?

Application Program Interface works as an interface between the operating system and application programs in the context of source code.

What is ISA?

ISA is an instruction set architecture.

ISA is a visible part of the processor and programmer can look at the ISA because ISA works as the boundary between the hardware and software.

ISA works as an intermediate interface between computer software and computer hardware.

api in os
Figure: API, ABI, ISA