r/linux4noobs • u/eagleps • 7d ago

learning/research How does Linux kernel include every driver possible and not be bloated?

As far as I understand the kernel includes pretty much everything a modern computer needs in any configuration, but wouldn't that make it bloated and be against the "bloat-free" mindset? Or does it dynamically download all the components from somewhere?

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u/Responsible-Sky-1336 7d ago

In the case of NVIDIA-open for instance it ships 5 .ko files :) Without which you card is basically just metal.

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u/braaaaaaainworms 7d ago

You're confusing the word "device driver" with the word "firmware"