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System Extensions

Under Development

This documentation is currently under active development. Content and procedures may change as we refine the Avocado OS platform.

Avocado OS utilizes systemd's extension mechanism to provide two distinct types of extensions that enable modular system composition. System Extensions (sysext) dynamically extend the /usr/ and /opt/ hierarchies with executable code and resources using overlayfs, activating automatically during boot. Configuration Extensions (confext) operate on the /etc/ hierarchy to manage and deploy system configuration independently from system software.

The extension system creates a layered architecture where multiple extension layers can be composed on top of the core OS. Each extension layer contains a self-contained application environment with all dependencies, preventing conflicts between different applications or services while enabling independent versioning and updates. Applications are packaged as self-contained extension layers that are added during builds or updates, eliminating complex installation procedures.

Extension System Benefits:

  • System Extensions (sysext) for executable code and resources
  • Configuration Extensions (confext) for system configuration management
  • Self-contained application environments with dependency isolation
  • Independent versioning and update capabilities

Extension Architecture:

  • Prebuilt solutions for common requirements (container runtimes, development tools)
  • Custom application integration through Avocado SDK
  • Extension compatibility across different hardware platforms
  • Overlayfs-based layering for efficient resource utilization

Next Steps​