3.3. Kernel Metadata Location

Kernel Metadata can be defined in either the kernel recipe (recipe-space) or in the kernel tree (in-tree). Where you choose to define the Metadata depends on what you want to do and how you intend to work. Regardless of where you define the kernel Metadata, the syntax used applies equally.

If you are unfamiliar with the Linux kernel and only wish to apply a configuration and possibly a couple of patches provided to you by others, the recipe-space method is recommended. This method is also a good approach if you are working with Linux kernel sources you do not control or if you just do not want to maintain a Linux kernel Git repository on your own. For partial information on how you can define kernel Metadata in the recipe-space, see the "Modifying an Existing Recipe" section.

Conversely, if you are actively developing a kernel and are already maintaining a Linux kernel Git repository of your own, you might find it more convenient to work with the kernel Metadata in the same repository as the Linux kernel sources. This method can make iterative development of the Linux kernel more efficient outside of the BitBake environment.