To keep up with the latest developments within the Linux community, you need to keep up with the latest kernel developments. The tools with which you configure and install the kernel have been refined a great deal, thereby making kernel upgrades and installation relatively straightforward tasks.

Like any other aspect of configuring Linux, understanding the details and nuances of the system are important to maintaining a healthy system. In particular, remember the following points:

• Be aware of which kernel version you install on systems. Critical systems should always get even version numbers.
• Make backups of both previous kernels and their corresponding modules. Locking yourself out of your system is a terrible way to waste an afternoon. In addition, keep a boot disk ready in case things go seriously wrong.
• Look for patches instead of downloading an entire new kernel. Using patches will save you a great deal of time.
• Read the /usr/src/linux/README file with each kernel distribution. This file will contain important information pertaining to the new release.
• Do not use any experimental code in a kernel destined for production use.
• Read the help information with each kernel option if you aren't sure about that option's functionality.
• Use make dep;make clean;make zImage to compile the kernel. Use make modules;make modules_install to compile and install modules.
• Compile lesser-used kernel features as modules to reduce kernel memory consumption. However, be sure to include key functions such as filesystem support for the root partition as part of the kernel—not a module.

Finally, don't be afraid of the kernel. Just be cautious, and you'll be fine.