# Yocto Project Kernel Architecture and Use Manual

## Introduction

The Yocto Project presents kernels as a fully patched, history-clean Git repositories. Each repository represents selected features, board support, and configurations extensively tested by the Yocto Project. Yocto Project kernels allow the end user to leverage community best practices to seamlessly manage the development, build and debug cycles.

This manual describes Yocto Project kernels by providing information on history, organization, benefits, and use. The manual consists of two sections:

- Concepts: Describes concepts behind a kernel. You will understand how a kernel is organized and why it is organized in the way it is. You will understand the benefits of a kernel's organization and the mechanisms used to work with the kernel and how to apply it in your design process.

- Using a Kernel: Describes best practices and "how-to" information that lets you put a kernel to practical use. Some examples are how to examine changes in a branch and how to save kernel modifications.

For more information on the Linux kernel, see the following links:

- The Linux Foundation's guide for kernel development process -

- A fairly encompassing guide on Linux kernel development -

For more discussion on the Yocto Project kernel, you can see these sections in the Yocto Project Development Manual:

- "Kernel Overview"

- "Kernel Modification Workflow"

- "Patching the Kernel"

- "Configuring the Kernel"

For general information on the Yocto Project, visit the website at .