In CentOS Linux, you can still upgrade the kernel to newer versions-you just have to get the newer kernels from Red Hat's FTP server. Unfortunately, these steps do not usually work with CentOS Linux because Red Hat has modified some of the kernel files. You would typically download the Linux kernel patches (as well as the latest versions of the kernel sources) from the website, decompress the files, and apply the patches by using the patch command. In the past it was possible to apply kernel patches-alterations to the kernel source code-and rebuild the kernel. The rest of this chapter explains how to upgrade a kernel using a kernel RPM provided by Red Hat as well as how to rebuild and install a new Linux kernel. Depending on your needs, you may also want to change some of the kernel-configuration options, such as creating a kernel that's specific for your Pentium processor (instead of a generic Intel 386 processor).

In particular, if you have a SCSI hard disk, you may want to create a kernel that supports your SCSI adapter. You may want to build a new kernel that links in the drivers for only the devices installed on your system. The Linux kernel on the companion CD-ROM is generic and uses modules to support all types of hardware. Sometimes you may want to rebuild the kernel even when there are no fixes or enhancements. On the other hand, if an earlier kernel version has everything you need, there is no need to rush out and upgrade. All these innovations come to you in the form of new versions of the Linux kernel.Īlthough you do not have to upgrade or modify the Linux operating system-the kernel-every time a new version is available, sometimes you need to upgrade simply because the new version corrects some problems or supports your hardware better. Some programmers, for example, write drivers that add support for new hardware, such as a new sound card or a new networking card. One reason that Linux is so exciting is that many programmers are constantly improving it.

Upgrading and Customizing the Linux Kernel

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