How to compile a driver with the kernel?
 

Hi,

I would like to build a linux box functionning as a firewall. For security reasons, I can't allow the use of modules. The problem is that I have the DLink ethernet card DFE-580TX and it is not supported by the kernel 2.4.18.

However, I have found the sources of the driver on internet. Now I would like to put this driver in the kernel.

Someone knows how to do ?

:newbie:

Where did you get your 2.4.18 kernel?
The card is supported in mine :)

drivers/net/sundance.c

Cheers,
Tink

Re: How to compile a driver with the kernel?
 

Welcome to LQ, Kermeat.

I've been in debates where people argue that using loadable kernel modules somehow violates your security. I would say, the malicious user who can replace your kernel module can just as easily replace your compressed kernel image, so not using modules doesnt offer you much additional security unless you dont reboot your server at all, in which case the cracker's kernel will never be used. Just my opinion.

If you want to use a driver that is not part of the standard kernel, you'll have to hack it to put it in. Does the sundance driver work for you?

The server will never reboot as it will be used to distribuate an internet connection to clients of us.

I have the sundance.c and I know how to turn it into a module but when I am telling that my card is not supported by the kernel I mean that I can't choose it in the make menuconfig.

My aim would be to compile the sundance.c within the kernel with the usual command make dep clean bzImage.

I have found how to do. Thank you.
I had my kernel on debian.org and sundance.c was not in drivers/net. The solution was to compile sundance.c and pci-scan.c and then to copy everything in drivers/net and now I can compile it within the kernel.
Else where did u have ur kernel ?

I have downloaded the last kernel 2.4.20 and now everything is ok!