“One of the most frequently cited difficulties transitioning to
Linux (especially on the desktop) is that it can be difficult to
find and integrate device drivers for new or obscure hardware. In
addition, even when drivers are available, they may involve
procedures that still strike terror into the hearts of newbies,
such as recompiling the kernel. But is this really necessary? I
rang up Linux Kernel guru Andrew Morton to discuss the state of
Linux devices drivers in 2005.“LinuxPlanet: What are the limitations on
binary drivers as you move from major release to major release and
then inside of the point releases?“Andrew Morton: Well we can change kernel
internal interfaces at any time. And obviously there are also
issues with making sure that the kernel itself and the driver were
compiled with the same version of GCC and the same kernel
configuration options…”
Web Webster has more than 20 years of writing and editorial experience in the tech sector. He’s written and edited news, demand generation, user-focused, and thought leadership content for business software solutions, consumer tech, and Linux Today, he edits and writes for a portfolio of tech industry news and analysis websites including webopedia.com, and DatabaseJournal.com.
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