Linux

21    Kernel and Modules

This chapter deals with the Linux kernel and its modules. Modules are parts of the kernel that are loaded on demand—for example, when a particular hardware component is addressed for the first time. Let me give you an overview first:

• Kernel modulesSection 21.1 explains why kernel modules are loaded automatically and what you need to do if this automatism fails.

• Device treesOn smartphones and in embedded devices, the requirements for managing kernel modules are quite different from those on PCs. There, device trees for managing kernel modules have become established.

• Compiling kernel modules yourselfIf you use special hardware, you may need to compile your own kernel module. How to do this is described in Section 21.2 ...