Howdy !

I've Mandrake 9.0, installed from the ISO images. I now need the kernel-source to compile some programs.

I've the 3rd CD with me. But uname -a shows : 2.4.19-24mdk, but where as the 3rd CD has 2.4.19-16mdk, for kernel-source.

Is this number diff. a big deal. What is that number, anyway ?

thanks,
shankar.

It's the release. When they update their kernel, or patch it, they slap a new release number on it. It's not a different kernel, but rather has different patches applied, or is setup slightly different. For the kernel source you want the kernel that is actually running on your system's source, however you may be able to get away with the 2.4.19-16mdk and you'll only know if you try. Otherwise, just setup a mirror as a download point and get the kernel source from there (make sure it's the same version you are running). You can use urpmi to install it:
urpmi kernel



Cool

Hello,
You can install the older kernel-sources, it's just that when you run Mandrake Update it will download the newer one. I suggest just going to http://www.rpmfind.net/ and downloading the latest kernel-source for your distribution release.
Bye

Thanks guys. I did actually find the rpm for 2.4.19-24mdk in http://www2.linuxforum.net/RPM/Mandrake_Linux.html.

But I beleive that the diff. between i586 & i686 is not much of a big deal as Mandrake has given the source for "anything > 586". So I assume that its safe to install this source.

Is that correct ?

thanks,
S.