How to compile your own kernel
Conclusion
As you can see, the process isn't difficult to perform, but it is rather time-consuming. Compiling a kernel isn't necessary. But if you have specific requirements for drivers or other support, it can save you time by preventing multiple rounds of troubleshooting and adding packages and support with endless dependencies. Configuring and compiling your own kernel can also make your kernel more efficient by leaving out support for features that you don't use. For instance, you might want to remove virtualization.
Space requirements for compiling a new kernel are significant. My /usr/src/linux-5.12
directory, after compilation, consumes 16GB of space. Lucky for me, I had ample disk space to extend my virtual machine's disk twice during the compile process. I hesitate to remove the source tree and compiled bits, because I'm generally paranoid about such things. So, I just deal with the burned space. For this reason, it's probably prudent to use a secondary drive to hold your source trees and downloaded software. In fact, you could mount the secondary drive on /usr/src/kernels
.
I suggest that you practice compiling new kernels with a test system or on a virtual machine. Get the process down before tackling it on a production system that users depend on. Always make backups of your system prior to engaging in a process like enabling a new kernel that significantly changes your system's behavior. I think it also helps if you wear a lucky shirt during the process, but that's just me.
« Previous 1 2 3 4
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
So Long Neofetch and Thanks for the Info
Today is a day that every Linux user who enjoys bragging about their system(s) will mourn, as Neofetch has come to an end.
-
Ubuntu 24.04 Comes with a “Flaw"
If you're thinking you might want to upgrade from your current Ubuntu release to the latest, there's something you might want to consider before doing so.
-
Canonical Releases Ubuntu 24.04
After a brief pause because of the XZ vulnerability, Ubuntu 24.04 is now available for install.
-
Linux Servers Targeted by Akira Ransomware
A group of bad actors who have already extorted $42 million have their sights set on the Linux platform.
-
TUXEDO Computers Unveils Linux Laptop Featuring AMD Ryzen CPU
This latest release is the first laptop to include the new CPU from Ryzen and Linux preinstalled.
-
XZ Gets the All-Clear
The back door xz vulnerability has been officially reverted for Fedora 40 and versions 38 and 39 were never affected.
-
Canonical Collaborates with Qualcomm on New Venture
This new joint effort is geared toward bringing Ubuntu and Ubuntu Core to Qualcomm-powered devices.
-
Kodi 21.0 Open-Source Entertainment Hub Released
After a year of development, the award-winning Kodi cross-platform, media center software is now available with many new additions and improvements.
-
Linux Usage Increases in Two Key Areas
If market share is your thing, you'll be happy to know that Linux is on the rise in two areas that, if they keep climbing, could have serious meaning for Linux's future.
-
Vulnerability Discovered in xz Libraries
An urgent alert for Fedora 40 has been posted and users should pay attention.