Linux ABI refers to the Linux Application Binary Interface

 

Short Explanation:

Linux ABI in this context means binary compatibility that allows running applications compiled for Linux on another operating system, especially FreeBSD. By enabling the Linux ABI, systems like FreeBSD can run Linux programs as if they were running on a native Linux environment.

Detailed Explanation:

• ABI (Application Binary Interface) is an interface between two binary components (e.g., between an application and the operating system kernel).

• Linux ABI provides a compatibility layer that lets non-Linux systems (such as FreeBSD) run Linux programs without needing to modify the source code.

• On FreeBSD, this feature is known as the Linux Binary Compatibility Layer or Linuxulator.

Example Case:

If you're using FreeBSD and want to run a Linux application like Google Chrome (which is only available for Linux), you need to enable the Linux ABI.

The command to enable it on FreeBSD is typically:

sysrc linux_enable="YES"

And to start it immediately (without rebooting):

service linux start

Conclusion:

Linux ABI in that sentence refers to a feature on non-Linux systems (like FreeBSD) that allows them to run binary programs compiled for Linux. The sentence means: to make sure this feature is active every time the system boots, run a specific command to configure the startup settings.