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5. Linux Kernel Modules

Linux Kernel Modules are critical for extending the functionality of the Linux kernel without necessitating a reboot or recompilation. These modules enhance the kernel's capabilities to manage hardware, implement network protocols, and add support for various filesystems. This chapter covers the types of kernel modules, their architecture, loading and unloading commands, as well as potential issues encountered while working with them.

Sections

  • 5

    Linux Kernel Modules

    Linux Kernel Modules (LKMs) allow the kernel to extend its functionality dynamically at runtime without needing a reboot.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.1

    Introduction To Linux Kernel Modules

    This section introduces Linux Kernel Modules (LKMs) as dynamic pieces of code that extend the functionality of the Linux kernel.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.2

    What Are Kernel Modules?

    Kernel modules are object files that extend the capabilities of the Linux kernel without the need for a system reboot.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.3

    Types Of Kernel Modules

    This section describes various types of kernel modules, highlighting their specific purposes and examples.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.3.1

    Device Drivers

    Device drivers are essential kernel modules in Linux that enable communication between the operating system and hardware devices.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.3.2

    Filesystems

    This section discusses kernel modules that provide support for various filesystem types in Linux.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.3.3

    Network Protocols

    This section discusses the role and significance of kernel modules that implement various network protocols in Linux.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.3.4

    System Features/modules

    This section explains the role and examples of system features/modules within the context of Linux Kernel Modules.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.4

    Kernel Module Architecture

    The kernel module architecture facilitates the dynamic loading and unloading of modules in the Linux kernel.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.4.1

    Module Initialization Function

    The Module Initialization Function is crucial for the dynamic loading of kernel modules, allowing for system functionality enhancement without needing a reboot.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.4.2

    Module Exit Function

    The module exit function is crucial for deregistering the functionalities of kernel modules in Linux.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.4.3

    Module Metadata

    Module metadata is essential for defining kernel module attributes, such as its license and purpose.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.5

    Loading And Unloading Kernel Modules

    This section explains the command-line tools used to load and unload kernel modules in Linux.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.5.1

    Loading Kernel Modules

    This section describes how to load and unload kernel modules in Linux, including the commands and their functions.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.5.2

    Unloading Kernel Modules

    This section discusses the methods for unloading kernel modules in a Linux-based system.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.5.3

    Listing Loaded Modules

    The section discusses the use of the `lsmod` command to list currently loaded kernel modules in Linux.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.5.4

    Kernel Module Information

    Kernel module information consists of essential details about the kernel modules currently loaded into the Linux kernel.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.6

    Building Kernel Modules

    This section provides an overview of how to build kernel modules, detailing the source code structure and necessary steps for compilation.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.6.1

    Basic Kernel Module Code (Example.c)

    This section introduces the basic code structure for a Linux kernel module, demonstrating its initialization and exit functions.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.6.2

    Makefile To Build The Module

    This section explains how to create a Makefile for building Linux kernel modules and the necessary steps involved.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.6.3

    Steps To Build The Module

    This section outlines the essential steps required to build a Linux kernel module, focusing on writing code, creating a Makefile, and compiling the module.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.7

    Common Issues With Kernel Modules

    This section discusses common problems developers face when working with kernel modules in Linux, including dependencies, loading failures, and memory management issues.

    Learning Practice

  • 5.8

    Conclusion

    Kernel modules are crucial for enhancing the functionality of Linux systems without altering the core kernel.

    Learning Practice

References

eeoe-el-5.pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • Kernel modules are dynamica...
  • Key types of kernel modules...
  • The kernel module architect...

Final Test

Revision Tests