LPIC-1 System Architecture Practice Question
Which TWO of the following are valid methods to view kernel messages on a systemd-based system?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often think `dmesg` is the only valid method for kernel messages, overlooking that `journalctl -k` is equally valid on systemd-based systems, or they may confuse `lsmod` with kernel message viewing due to its association with kernel information.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
journalctl -k
On systemd-based systems, the `journalctl -k` command displays kernel messages from the systemd journal, which is the default logging system. The `-k` flag specifically filters for kernel messages, making it a direct and valid method to view kernel logs.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
lsmod
Why it's wrong here
Lists loaded modules, not kernel messages.
- ✓
journalctl -k
Why this is correct
Shows kernel messages from the systemd journal for the current boot.
- ✗
cat /var/log/syslog
Why it's wrong here
Does not exclusively show kernel messages and may not be present on all systems.
- ✗
grub-mkconfig
Why it's wrong here
Generates GRUB configuration, unrelated to kernel messages.
- ✓
dmesg
Why this is correct
Shows kernel ring buffer messages from the current boot.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This LPIC-1 practice question is part of Courseiva's free LPI certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the LPIC-1 exam.