Hacks 88-91

When people speak of Linux, they are usually referring to an operating system, 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 kernel 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.