Kernel Configuration - Part IV

Kernel Configuration - Part IV

We’re now deep into the second kernel configuration series in Penguin Shell. So far, we’ve talked about finding and acquiring kernel source, either on your machine or via download. We’ve also covered the three methods for configuring the kernel - make config, make menuconfig and make xconfig. Today, we’re going to begin a step-by-step walk through of the configuration options, beginning with Code Maturity Level Options.

This element of the kernel configuration offers you the option compile development, incomplete or experimental device drivers. This can be a bit deceptive, as selecting this option will include such drivers in the kernel configuration process where applicable. In other words, if you don’t select the development drivers option, you won’t have the option to include these drivers during your kernel configuration. It took me awhile to figure this out but, in hindsight, it nearly makes sense. The option is really asking if you want to see these drivers.

The next configuration option is Loadable Module Support. This sets up the protocol by which your Linux system will or will not utilize loadable modules. Your options are:

1. Enable Loadable Module Support - With this option unselected, the other two options go away. For most new Linux users, loadable modules are a Godsend, saving countless hours of research and kernel recompilation while attempting to perfectly match your hardware to drivers.
2. Set version information on all module symbols - If you’ve selected loadable module support, you’ll have the option of setting or not setting version information for each module. If you’re using loadable modules, it’s generally a good idea to use this version information. You may want to update a module manually, at some point. It’s good to know what version number you’re currently using.
3. Kernel module loader - This option will build the module loading code directly into the kernel. Again, for new users, this is the quickest and easiest way to go. If you’re more experienced with Linux, you’ll probably want to deselect this option and configure module loading by hand, decreasing the code weight of your kernel.

Tomorrow, we’ll look at the processor type and features options.