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Chapter 10
CHAPTER 10
Kernel
Hacks #88–91
When people speak of Linux, they are usually referring to an operating sys-
tem, but most Linux users know Linux is just a kernel and not a complete
OS. Of course, the kernel is the most critical piece of software on a Linux
system. Luckily for us Linux users, the open source ethos that is ingrained in
kernel development, and the hundreds of developers who peer over the code
and improve it, ensure that we have an incredibly stable and secure kernel
that forms the backbone of our operating system.
Unlike closed source operating systems in which you are given a one-size-
fits-all kernel that needs to account for a variety of hardware, the Linux ker-
nel can be customized to fit your system. This approach has both pluses and
minuses. One the one hand, this ability gives you an efficient kernel that can
perform well on a resource-poor system, or give you increased stability by
not running software that isn’t needed. On the other hand, it means you are
often faced with the task of compiling a kernel to add support for specific
hardware or to gain additional functionality.
Compiling kernels is not a difficult or scary process, but the thought of
doing so can be a bit nerve-wracking. With the range of hacks included in
this section, you will have no problem compiling the ideal kernel for your
computer.
HACK
#88
Compile a Kernel Hack #88
Compiling a Linux kernel isn’t ...