Linux Kernel in a Nutshell

In a Nutshell

by Greg Kroah-Hartman

Written by a leading developer and maintainer of the Linux kernel, Linux Kernel in a Nutshell is a comprehensive overview of kernel configuration and building, a critical task for Linux users and administrators. No distribution can provide a Linux kernel that meets all users' needs. Computers big and small have special requirements that require reconfiguring and rebuilding the kernel. Whether you are trying to get sound, wireless support, and power management working on a laptop or incorporating enterprise features such as logical volume management on a large server, you can benefit from the insights in this book. Linux Kernel in a Nutshell covers the entire range of kernel tasks, starting with downloading the source and making sure that the kernel is in sync with the versions of the tools you need. In addition to configuration and installation steps, the book offers reference material and discussions of related topics such as control of kernel options at runtime. A key benefit of the book is a chapter on determining exactly what drivers are needed for your hardware. Also included are recipes that list what you need to do to accomplish a wide range of popular tasks.

Genres: Computer Science, Technology, Engineering, Computers, Reference

198 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[يوسف بوحايك · Rating 3 out of 5]

A general view about Linux Kernel oriented generally for normal users rather than developers. He tried to summarize the different steps and tools used to configure and build the Linux Kernel covering the different parameters related to it.
Acceptable as a start.

[Brian Salehi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great reference to learn the easy ways of configuring Linux kernel. This book is actually both a tutorial and a reference. You will definitely need to come back and take a look at it, specially chapter 7 & 8.

[Richard · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm sure this was a great book when it came out.

A Linux kernel guide this old is obsolete.

Shout out to Greg Kroah-Hartman for the effort!

[ctwayfarer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely charming to read. Crystal clear and precise language. For the enthusiast, needs about 6 hours to finish cover to cover. Finding the necessary drivers and kernel modules while attempting to compile a custom kernel is the hairiest bit for any newbie. The author lists out a coherent strategy to do this and provides handy appendices at the end for kernel compilation configuration options. Also included are GRUB boot options for troubleshooting.

With the knowledge I gleaned on the 'irqpoll' GRUB option I was able to help a friend get his CD/DVD drive working on his Debian system! And I'm no technical professional!

Aimed at the end-user as opposed to developers, this book is truly empowering.

[Radek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Practical book dedicated to the Linux kernel from an advanced user's perspective, rather than a developer's point of view. It explains various things from the kernel build system and provides a really in-depth description of kernel configuration and ways of customizing it.

The second part of the book lists different boot-time options to the kernel, it's build system options (i.e., the build targets), and some important configuration options. It acts as a reference.

Even though some bits might be a little outdated, it's still contains some useful tips and pointers. It is available to download on-line for free (under Creative-Commons license).

[Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is MUST READ book for any who want to build own custom kernel.