how to compile kernel with new driver (not shipped with kernel)
 

I have a WIFI USB that came with a linux driver says linux on the box. unsure where to copy files to in the build tree or not. TP-LINK wireless Nano USB adapter - a cheapo ! works effortlessly in WIn10.

the 4.x linux kernel has drivers "like it" but i get no ifconfig interface (no wlan0 registered) using the ones i've tried so want to try the mfg driver - it says on the box i bought "linux supported" and for $13 i expect my money's worth from china and no lies.

if i cd(1) to the mfg directory and type "make" (which they said to do in a guide only showing ubunto baked install), it says "Module.symvers" missing, if i copy that it had many #defines unresolved failed build. Ok i think - directions are wrong - maybe this code is supposed to be in kernel top directory. No that overwrites Makefile and also doesn't work.

it has a Kconfig file, Makefile, many directories (core, hal, ...) with code, headers

I'm not sure where this "driver code" goes and if it all goes in the same directory - that's my main queston

nor how do i tell a 4.x kernel to include it as a module in the build? will just hiding it in some directory include it in the build if i add that Kconfig to file "menuconfig" or is that wishful thinking am i in for some pain and should give up - is it all obstruction and only they have the key for 'unwinding' the mess?

Found this. Might work.
https://github.com/ilnanny/TL-WN725N-TP-Link-Debian
There are instructions there.
I have a later tp-link adapter and all I do is unzip
the driver code and change into the folder and do
and the driver goes where it's supposed to go
and works on next boot.