Kernel glossary

This page is a running list of terminology that is frequently used when talking about kernels.

DKMS

Dynamic Kernel Module Support, or DKMS is a framework that provides support for installing supplementary versions of kernel modules in a simplified manner. See the dkms manpages for more information.

edge kernel

An edge kernel is the next HWE kernel still in development with features and/or updates that will be backported from the latest Ubuntu release (until the next LTS).

HWE

Hardware enablement, or HWE kernels are Ubuntu kernels based on newer upstream kernel versions (compared to the Ubuntu LTS GA release) that typically contain newer features, improved performance and security, and support for newer classes of hardware. Newer kernels are usually shipped with interim and LTS releases, and will then be enabled on the latest Ubuntu LTS release as the HWE kernel. This provides an easier upgrade path for existing LTS users, and enables new deployments to immediately benefit from the newer kernel version.

See HWE kernels for more information.

OEM kernel

The OEM kernel is an optimised derivative Ubuntu kernel, designed specifically for use in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) projects. OEM kernel variants are typically developed and customised for hardware that will be pre-installed with Ubuntu.

See OEM kernels for more information.