LPIC-2 Linux Kernel and System Startup Practice Question
Which three steps are required to build a kernel module from source located outside the kernel tree? (Choose three.)
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: candidates think editing the kernel configuration or using the top-level Makefile is necessary for external modules, but in reality, external modules only need the kernel headers and a properly written Makefile that invokes the kernel build system.
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
✓
Run 'make modules_install'.
'make modules_install' copies the compiled kernel module (.ko file) to the appropriate directory under /lib/modules/$(uname -r)/, making it available for loading. This step is essential after building a module from external source to ensure it is installed in the correct location for the running kernel.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Run 'make modules_install'.
Why this is correct
This installs the compiled module to /lib/modules/$(uname -r)/.
- ✓
Run 'make' in the module source directory.
Why this is correct
This compiles the module source into a .ko file.
- ✓
Run 'depmod -a'.
Why this is correct
depmod rebuilds the module dependency database.
- ✗
Edit the kernel configuration.
Why it's wrong here
Kernel configuration is not changed for external modules; they are built separately.
- ✗
Use the kernel's top-level Makefile.
Why it's wrong here
External modules have their own Makefile; using the kernel's Makefile is not required.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
One of 507 original LPIC-2 practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.