LPIC-2 Linux Kernel and System Startup Practice Question
An administrator needs to ensure a kernel module is never loaded, even if requested. Which file should be used?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: candidates confuse the purpose of `/etc/modprobe.d/` (for module options and blacklisting) with `/etc/modules-load.d/` (for loading modules at boot), leading them to choose Option D, which is for loading, not blocking.
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
✓
/etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf
The standard mechanism to prevent a kernel module from loading is to add a `blacklist` directive in a file under `/etc/modprobe.d/`, typically named `blacklist.conf`. The `modprobe` utility reads all `.conf` files in this directory, and a `blacklist <module_name>` entry ensures the module is never automatically loaded or loaded via `modprobe`, even if explicitly requested.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
/etc/modprobe.d/deny.conf
Why it's wrong here
There is no standard 'deny.conf'; blacklisting is done with 'blacklist' keyword.
- ✓
/etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf
Why this is correct
Adding 'blacklist <module>' to a .conf file in /etc/modprobe.d/ prevents the module from being loaded automatically.
- ✗
/lib/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf
Why it's wrong here
System-wide blacklists are in /etc/modprobe.d/, not /lib/.
- ✗
/etc/modules-load.d/blacklist.conf
Why it's wrong here
modules-load.d is for loading, not blacklisting.
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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.