# Kernel Development FAQ

## Common Questions and Solutions

The following lists some solutions for common questions.

How do I use my own Linux kernel `.config` file?

Refer to the "Changing the Configuration" section for information.

How do I create configuration fragments?

Refer to the "Generating Configuration Files" section for information.

How do I use my own Linux kernel sources?

Refer to the "Working With Your Own Sources" section for information.

How do I install/not-install the kernel image on the rootfs?

The kernel image (e.g. `vmlinuz`) is provided by the `kernel-image` package. Image recipes depend on `kernel-base`. To specify whether or not the kernel image is installed in the generated root filesystem, override `RDEPENDS_kernel-base` to include or not include "kernel-image".

See the "Using .bbappend Files" section in the Yocto Project Development Manual for information on how to use an append file to override metadata.

How do I install a specific kernel module?

Linux kernel modules are packaged individually. To ensure a specific kernel module is included in an image, include it in the appropriate machine `RRECOMMENDS` variable.

These other variables are useful for installing specific modules:

         MACHINE_ESSENTIAL_EXTRA_RDEPENDS
         MACHINE_ESSENTIAL_EXTRA_RRECOMMENDS
         MACHINE_EXTRA_RDEPENDS
         MACHINE_EXTRA_RRECOMMENDS

For example, set the following in the `qemux86.conf` file to include the `ab123` kernel modules with images built for the `qemux86` machine:

         MACHINE_EXTRA_RRECOMMENDS += "kernel-module-ab123"

For more information, see the "Incorporating Out-of-Tree Modules" section.

How do I change the Linux kernel command line?

The Linux kernel command line is typically specified in the machine config using the `APPEND` variable. For example, you can add some helpful debug information doing the following:

         APPEND += "printk.time=y initcall_debug debug"