A kernel module is a piece of code that carries out some function that is not needed by every user. For example, the dc2xx kernel module allows users with certain kodak cameras to use them with linux. Since most linux users don't have such a camera, it makes sense not to include this module in the kernel. More generally, if the kernel included all possible modules then it would be much much larger than necessary. Modutils is a set of functions, such as insmod and modprobe that are used to install and deal with modules in a running kernel. You need to have the version of modutils that matches your kernel if you want to use any kernel modules. Usually you need some kernel modules to use some of your computer's devices. When you compile and install a kernel you should compile and install the relvant kernel modules. If you use a precompiled kernel, they will be included in the rpm. John D Lamb On Thu, 22 Mar 2001, Andrei Verovski wrote:

Hi,

Anyone have a clue what is the difference between modules and modutils, they seem to be doing the same?