Question 108 of 507
LPIC-2 Linux Kernel and System Startup Practice Question
A developer has compiled a custom kernel with a new feature. The kernel modules are installed in /lib/modules/$(uname -r)/. However, when the system boots, the kernel fails to load some modules with 'Exec format error'. What is the most likely cause?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently confuse 'Exec format error' with file permission or dependency issues, but the error specifically points to an incompatible binary format, which is a hallmark of kernel version mismatch.
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
✓
The modules were compiled against a different kernel version.
The 'Exec format error' indicates that the kernel module binary is incompatible with the running kernel. This most commonly occurs when modules are compiled against a different kernel version (e.g., different kernel source tree or configuration), as the module's vermagic string must exactly match the kernel's vermagic. The kernel's module loader checks this version magic before loading; a mismatch causes the exec format error.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The kernel configuration has disabled module loading.
Why it's wrong here
If module loading is disabled, the error would be different.
- ✓
The modules were compiled against a different kernel version.
Why this is correct
Exec format error occurs when module version doesn't match kernel.
- ✗
The modules have incorrect file permissions.
Why it's wrong here
Permission errors would be 'Permission denied', not 'Exec format error'.
- ✗
The modules are not properly ordered in the dependency file.
Why it's wrong here
Dependency order does not cause exec format errors.
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
This LPIC-2 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-2 exam.
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