Linux - HardwareThis forum is for Hardware issues.
Having trouble installing a piece of hardware? Want to know if that peripheral is compatible with Linux?
Notices
Welcome to LinuxQuestions.org, a friendly and active Linux Community.
You are currently viewing LQ as a guest. By joining our community you will have the ability to post topics, receive our newsletter, use the advanced search, subscribe to threads and access many other special features. Registration is quick, simple and absolutely free. Join our community today!
Note that registered members see fewer ads, and ContentLink is completely disabled once you log in.
If you have any problems with the registration process or your account login, please contact us. If you need to reset your password, click here.
Having a problem logging in? Please visit this page to clear all LQ-related cookies.
Get a virtual cloud desktop with the Linux distro that you want in less than five minutes with Shells! With over 10 pre-installed distros to choose from, the worry-free installation life is here! Whether you are a digital nomad or just looking for flexibility, Shells can put your Linux machine on the device that you want to use.
Exclusive for LQ members, get up to 45% off per month. Click here for more info.
Can I add memory to the Linux box without rebooting the system?
I think Linux check the hardware at booting time. But if I need to add more memory to the server while I do not want to stop the service. Is there some method to make Linux use the new added memories?
The Linux kernel has support for memory hotplug, if that's what you are asking. The second question is whether your hardware supports it or not, though. And Linux can't do anything about that, you should be able to find that on the technical manuals for your hardware. Another question is whether the concrete software you are using will handle it nicely or not. You might need to restart a given program or service so it becomes aware (you will save a reboot at least).
Another question is whether your OS will be able to handle all the RAM. In other words: is it using regular x86, x86 with PAE, x64 or any other architecture? You only need to worry about this if you have less than 4gb or ram and you plan to end up with more than 4gb or ram.
The old fashioned hardware guy in me shrieks in horror.
Adding ram like plugging in a card would comprehensively blow most systems. Make sure yours is physically hot pluggable. Be aware that kernel support for hot plugging really means the kernel can switch it off.
LinuxQuestions.org is looking for people interested in writing
Editorials, Articles, Reviews, and more. If you'd like to contribute
content, let us know.