Translations:Handbook:Parts/Installation/Kernel/77/en


 * Full automation: A Distribution Kernel is used to configure, automatically build, and install the Linux kernel, its associated modules, and (optionally, but enabled by default) an initramfs file. Future kernel updates are fully automated since they are handled through the package manager, just like any other system package. It is possible provide a custom kernel configuration file if customization is necessary. This is the least involved process, and is perfect for new Gentoo users, but offers the least amount of update control.
 * Genkernel (hybrid): New kernel sources are installed via the system package manager. System administrators use Gentoo's tool to generically configure, automatically build and install the Linux kernel, its associated modules, and (optionally, but not enabled by default) an initramfs file. It is possible provide a custom kernel configuration file if customization is necessary. Future kernel configuration, compilation, and installation require the system administrator's involvement in the form of running, , and potentially other commands for each update.
 * Manual configuration: New kernel sources are installed via the system package manager. The kernel is manually configured, built, and installed using the and a slew of  commands. Future kernel updates repeat the manual process of configuring, building, and installing the kernel files. This is the most involved process, but offers maximum control over the kernel update process.