"Now that the 2.4.0 Linux kernel has been officially released,
the great orgy of compiling has begun. Thousands of progressive
Linux users are downloading kernel sources, preparing to reap the
benefits of new and improved hardware support. As the flurry of
upgrading goes on, many newer Linux users are searching the Web for
kernel assistance. Many kernel help pages tell users how to compile
the kernel, but do not explain how to prepare for a new
kernel."
"The key to proper kernel configuration is knowing exactly what
you have in your computer, and what you want to support (note the
extreme emphasis on personal choice). The kernel can include
modules for many possible devices, or be a minimalist piece of code
for your particular beige box. Either way, your system
configuration must be known before compilation."
"There are many specific things you need to know about your
system to build the proper kernel. ... There are various mechanisms
to obtain this information:
