LPI Linux Certification in a Nutshell, 2nd Edition

Kernel (Topic 1.105)

Review Questions

1. What is the procedure for removing and installing modules in the running kernel? Why is this procedure necessary?

2. Describe the differences between the insmod and modprobe commands.

3. Which file stores optional parameters used by kernel modules?

4. Describe the nature of a monolithic kernel and the consequences and/or advantages of using one.

5. Name the major steps required to configure, build, and install a custom kernel and its modules.

Exercises

1. Using the procedures found in Chapter 13, as well as the kernel HOWTO, configure, build, and install a custom kernel and modules. Boot the new kernel. Does your system behave normally? Are you able to boot both your original kernel and the new one?

2. Using lsmod, examine the modules loaded in your running kernel.

   1. Try removing a noncritical module, for example, rmmod sound. Did the command fail because the module was in use?

   2. Try inserting a module, for example, modprobe fat, followed by lsmod. Did the module get inserted correctly? Remove it with rmmod fat. Was the removal successful?

   3. What is logged in /var/log/messages during these changes?