Compiling linux 4.8.8 kernel on debain

zoelee4 · 11-17-2016, 09:38 PM

I am a real noob, I have no idea how I would even go about this. Thanks!

frankbell · 11-17-2016, 09:47 PM

The Debian website has an article about this, but really, if you are a real noob, as you put it, my advice would be, don't go there unless you have a truly compelling reason to do so. If you do go there, practice in a virtual machine before doing it on your live system.

zoelee4 · 11-17-2016, 09:49 PM

I'm doing it because need a Newer kernel for my Razer Blade touch pad drivers, I think. Thanks!

frankbell · 11-17-2016, 09:50 PM

Yeah, that would be a compelling reason. Back up any crucial data before you start, just in case.

(There is no such thing as too many backups.)

A web search of "compile kernel [distro name]" should yield articles relevant to the distro for which you need a new kernel.

Good luck.

zoelee4 · 11-17-2016, 09:53 PM

I tried installing the 4.7 kernel and the 4.8 kernel. I can boot from them in my grub, however if I boot to them it's just a black screen with a blinking cursor. I can however access the command line using F1 + alt. Any ideas why this is? Thanks!

frankbell · 11-17-2016, 10:00 PM

You are not "booting" from them. You may be selecting them in GRUB, but the boot is failing. Other than indicating that the compile failed in some way, I'm afraid that I am not competent to suggest anything more. I wish I were.

Let us hope that one of the more experienced members here will join the thread.

In the meantime, I hope you can still boot to one of the older kernels and regain functionality.

(I shall keep checking this thread because I want to see how this turns out.)

zoelee4 · 11-17-2016, 10:01 PM

I can still use it perfectly, thanks for the concern!