The MirBSD Korn Shell (mksh) is an enhanced version of the Public Domain Korn Shell (pdksh). It is a free implementation of the KornShell language and is widely used for scripting and interactive use on Unix-like operating systems. mksh is known for its performance, portability, and compatibility with various standards, making it a popular choice among system administrators and developers.
One of the key features of mksh is its compatibility with the original KornShell (ksh88) while also incorporating many features from ksh93 and other shells like bash and zsh. This makes it a versatile shell that can be used in a variety of environments. mksh is also designed to be lightweight and efficient, with a focus on security and correctness.
| Feature | mksh | bash | zsh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | ksh88, ksh93 | sh, ksh | sh, ksh, bash |
| Scripting | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Interactive Use | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Performance | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Portability | High | High | High |
| Extensibility | Moderate | High | High |
| Built-in Commands | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive |
| Customization | Moderate | High | High |
| Security Features | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Low | Moderate |
In summary, mksh is a powerful and efficient shell that offers a good balance of features and performance. It is particularly well-suited for users who need a shell that is compatible with the KornShell while also providing enhancements and improvements. Compared to bash and zsh, mksh may have a steeper learning curve but offers high performance and security, making it a reliable choice for both scripting and interactive use.