Linux Kernel and Userspace Question
 

Hi,

I am a newbie in Linux kernel compilation. I have successfully compiled the Linux Kernel 3.11 from an existing system running Suse 12.3 - Linux 3.7. My question is as follows.

1) With the compiled kernel, most the instruction on the internet just points to installing on the exiting system. I have not done that as I do not want to mess up the current installation. What is the best way to get it to a new install? How do I create a DVD or USB live CD?

2) The kernel that I have built is packaged in a RPM. I took a peek at the RPM it seems that it only contains kernel and drivers files. My question here is, Do I need to compile the user space programs (eg ls, find, grep, etc) that is located in the /usr/bin directory.

Thanks.

1. in general you can have several kernels installed and you can select one of them during boot (see lilo or grub)
2. in general you do not need to compile user space programs but in some cases you may need to compile-install additional files (to be able to use the new kernel).
3. be careful and make backup to be able to restore your host.

Hi,

Thanks for the answer. May I know when can I get the source for the common executable that is found in the /usr/bin directory? Thanks again.

The things that you find in /usr/bin are not "the kernel." You will find them in some package, and for that package there will be an accompanying, optional, "source package." The source-code will be found there.