5.4. Kernel Module Architecture

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the module initialization function do?

   Hint

   Think about what happens when new code is integrated into the active kernel.

2. 2.

   What macro is used to define the exit function?

   Hint

   Recall that initialization and exit functions have different prefixes.

3. 3.

   What is the purpose of the module initialization function?

   • It runs when the module is loaded
   • It cleans up resources
   • It registers a network protocol

   Hint

   Think about the first step that happens when a module is activated.

4. 4.

   True or False: The exit function is optional for a kernel module.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens during module removal.

5. 5.

   Design a kernel module that keeps track of the number of times it has been loaded and unloaded, logging this information.

   Hint

   Think about how state can persist across multiple loads and unloads.

6. 6.

   Implement proper memory management for a module that allocates memory for a linked list. What should you ensure within the exit function?

   Hint

   Consider the lifecycle of allocated resources.