Compiling#

This is a condensed, step-by-step version of the guide, optimized for experienced users. For in-depth explanations, refer to the official kernel documentation.

1. Install Build Dependencies#

Ensure your toolchain is ready. On Fedora, use dnf or a toolbox/distrobox container:

# Example for Debian/Ubuntu-based containers
sudo apt install build-essential libncurses-dev bison flex libssl-dev libelf-dev

2. Download and Extract Source#

Get the desired version from kernel.org:

wget https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.x.y.tar.xz
tar -xvf linux-6.x.y.tar.xz && cd linux-6.x.y

3. Configuration#

Use your existing system config as a baseline or start fresh:

  • Existing config: cp /boot/config-$(uname -r) .config followed by make oldconfig
  • Default: make defconfig
  • Interactive (UI): make menuconfig

4. Compilation#

Build the kernel image and modules using all available cores:

make -j$(nproc)

This produces the bzImage file.

Just in Case In this project, the configuration and compilation is handled by the Justfile in the project directory.

Essential Tips#

  • Cleanup: Use make clean to remove build files but keep your .config. Use make mrproper to reset the tree entirely.
  • Safety: Never delete your previous working kernel until the new one is confirmed stable.
  • Localmodconfig: Run make localmodconfig to disable all modules not currently loaded by your system for a much faster build.

Would you like me to create a Justfile to automate these steps for your local environment?

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