Glossary
KernelPort
The only door into the kernel: define, assert, seal, verify, scope, refuse.
Read the termGlossary · Term 17 of 39
Kernel
The kernel is elan1 Govern's core: a single write function behind KernelPort. It runs the gates, approvals, proof records and metering for every governed write, and no other elan1 product builds any of these itself. Because the kernel is the only writer, every change to a system of record passes through it.
In one sentence: elan1 Govern's core: one write function behind KernelPort. No other product builds gates, approvals, proof or a meter.
01In more detail
What it means in practice
The Right Path lives in the kernel, and only Govern owns it. Work, Decide and Run never build their own gate, approval store, seal, meter or verifier.
The earlier names "the elan1 kernel" and "the elan1 layer" now refer to elan1 Govern.
02Where this shows up in elan1
Plane P3 of the reference architecture — the kernel is shut; no other layer adds code there.
Defined in the elan1 glossary · Last reviewed 10 Oct 2026. Definitions change only with a dated note.
// SEE IT
See the term in a governed action.
The walkthrough follows one write from intent to proof record, using the words in this glossary.