Kernel Modules

Summary #

modules are pieces of code that can be loaded and unloaded into the kernel upon demand. They extend the functionality of the kernel without the need to reboot the system. A module can be configured as built-in or loadable. To dynamically load or remove a module, it has to be configured as a loadable module in the kernel configuration. ref

Types of modules #

Static Modules #

Static modules are those which are compiled as part of the base kernel and it is available at any time.

Dynamic Modules. #

Dynamic Modules are compiled as modules separately and loaded based on user demand. These are also called as Loadable Kernel Modules(LKM).