How To Install DKMS on Rocky Linux 10

Managing kernel modules efficiently represents a critical challenge for enterprise Linux administrators. Rocky Linux 10, as a leading enterprise-grade distribution, requires robust solutions for maintaining system stability during kernel updates. Dynamic Kernel Module Support (DKMS) emerges as the definitive framework for automating kernel module management, ensuring seamless compatibility across kernel versions without manual intervention.

This comprehensive guide delivers detailed instructions for installing and configuring DKMS on Rocky Linux 10 systems. Whether you’re managing enterprise workstations, server infrastructure, or development environments, understanding DKMS implementation will significantly enhance your system’s reliability and reduce maintenance overhead. The following sections provide step-by-step procedures, troubleshooting strategies, and optimization techniques essential for successful DKMS deployment.

Understanding DKMS: The Foundation of Dynamic Kernel Module Support

What is DKMS?

Dynamic Kernel Module Support represents a revolutionary framework that streamlines kernel module management across Linux distributions. DKMS provides automated rebuilding capabilities for kernel modules whenever new kernel versions are installed, eliminating the traditional requirement for manual compilation and installation procedures. This framework maintains module compatibility across kernel updates, ensuring continuous system functionality without administrator intervention.

The architecture operates by storing module source code in designated directories and automatically detecting kernel changes. When the system boots with a new kernel, DKMS identifies incompatible modules and initiates the rebuilding process using the appropriate kernel headers and development tools. This automated approach significantly reduces system downtime and maintenance complexity in enterprise environments.

DKMS differs fundamentally from traditional kernel module compilation by providing a standardized configuration system. Module developers create configuration files that specify build parameters, installation locations, and dependency requirements. These configurations enable consistent module deployment across different system configurations and kernel versions, enhancing reliability and reducing deployment errors.

Why DKMS is Critical for Rocky Linux 10

Enterprise environments demand consistent system availability and minimal maintenance overhead. Rocky Linux 10 systems often require specialized drivers and modules not included in the standard kernel distribution. Graphics drivers, storage controllers, and networking adapters frequently depend on proprietary or third-party modules that must remain functional across kernel updates.

DKMS addresses these requirements by automating the module rebuilding process during system updates. This automation prevents the common scenario where kernel updates render critical hardware components non-functional due to incompatible drivers. Enterprise administrators benefit from reduced maintenance windows and improved system reliability, as DKMS handles module compatibility automatically.

The framework proves particularly valuable for environments utilizing specialized hardware configurations. High-performance computing clusters, graphics workstations, and storage systems often require custom kernel modules for optimal performance. DKMS ensures these modules remain available and functional throughout the system lifecycle, supporting business continuity objectives and reducing operational complexity.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

System Requirements

Rocky Linux 10 installation requires specific system configurations to support DKMS functionality effectively. The system must maintain sufficient disk space for storing kernel headers, development tools, and compiled modules. A minimum of 2GB free space in the root filesystem ensures adequate room for DKMS operations and temporary build files.

Root access or sudo privileges represent essential requirements for DKMS installation and configuration. Administrative permissions allow the installation of development packages, kernel headers, and DKMS itself. Additionally, the system requires stable network connectivity for downloading packages from official repositories and third-party sources.

Hardware compatibility considerations include sufficient RAM for compilation processes and CPU capabilities for building complex modules. Systems with limited resources may experience extended compilation times, particularly for large driver packages like graphics drivers or storage controllers.

Pre-installation Checklist

System verification begins with confirming the current kernel version using the uname -r command. This information helps identify the appropriate kernel development packages and ensures compatibility with available DKMS modules. Record this version information for reference during the installation process.

Package repository accessibility requires verification before beginning the installation procedure. Test repository connectivity using dnf repolist to confirm that base repositories and EPEL sources are available and functioning correctly. Resolve any repository configuration issues before proceeding with DKMS installation.

Creating system backups protects against potential configuration issues during the installation process. Back up critical system configurations, particularly custom kernel parameters and module configurations. This precautionary measure enables rapid recovery if installation problems occur.

Disk space analysis ensures sufficient storage for development tools and compiled modules. Use df -h to verify available space in /usr, /var, and /tmp directories. These locations store development packages, DKMS modules, and temporary build files during compilation processes.

Step-by-Step DKMS Installation Process

Step 1: System Package Updates

Begin the installation process by updating all system packages to their latest versions. This crucial step ensures compatibility between DKMS components and existing system software. Execute the following command with administrative privileges:

sudo dnf update -y

The update process refreshes package repositories and installs available security patches and bug fixes. This procedure prevents conflicts between outdated packages and new DKMS components. Monitor the update process for any error messages or dependency conflicts that might affect subsequent installations.

Reboot the system if kernel updates were installed during the update process. New kernel versions require system restarts to become active, and DKMS installation should proceed with the target kernel version running. Verify the active kernel version using uname -r after rebooting to confirm successful kernel activation.

Step 2: Enable EPEL Repository

The Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux (EPEL) repository provides access to additional software packages not included in the standard Rocky Linux repositories. DKMS packages are typically distributed through EPEL, making repository activation essential for successful installation.

Install the EPEL release package using the following command:

sudo dnf install epel-release

This command downloads and configures the EPEL repository for your Rocky Linux 10 system. The installation process adds repository configuration files to /etc/yum.repos.d/ and imports the necessary GPG keys for package verification. Verify successful repository activation by listing available repositories:

dnf repolist | grep epel

The output should display EPEL repository entries, confirming successful configuration. If repository activation fails, check network connectivity and DNS resolution for the EPEL mirror servers.

Step 3: Install Required Dependencies

DKMS requires several development packages and tools for successful module compilation. These dependencies include kernel development headers, compilers, and build utilities essential for creating kernel modules from source code.

Install the complete dependency set using this comprehensive command:

sudo dnf install kernel-devel kernel-headers gcc make perl python3

Each dependency serves specific functions in the DKMS ecosystem:

• kernel-devel: Provides kernel development headers and build infrastructure required for module compilation
• kernel-headers: Contains kernel header files defining system call interfaces and kernel APIs
• gcc: GNU Compiler Collection handles C/C++ source code compilation for kernel modules
• make: Build automation tool processes Makefiles and manages compilation workflows
• perl: Scripting language required for DKMS configuration and module management scripts
• python3: Modern Python interpreter supporting newer DKMS features and tools

Verify successful installation by checking package versions:

rpm -qa | grep -E "kernel-devel|gcc|make|perl"

This command displays installed versions of critical dependencies, confirming their availability for DKMS operations.

Step 4: Install DKMS Package

With all prerequisites satisfied, proceed with the primary DKMS package installation. The EPEL repository provides the official DKMS package optimized for Red Hat Enterprise Linux derivatives, including Rocky Linux.

Execute the installation command:

sudo dnf install dkms

The package manager downloads DKMS and any remaining dependencies automatically. Monitor the installation process for any error messages or dependency conflicts. Successful installation creates the DKMS directory structure and installs management utilities.

Verify the installation by checking the DKMS version:

dkms --version

This command displays the installed DKMS version and confirms successful package installation. The output should show version information without error messages, indicating proper installation and configuration.

Step 5: Post-Installation Verification

Complete the installation process by verifying DKMS functionality and system integration. Check the DKMS status to confirm proper initialization:

sudo dkms status

Initially, this command may return no output, indicating that no modules are currently managed by DKMS. This result is normal for fresh installations before adding any custom modules.

Examine the DKMS directory structure to verify proper installation:

ls -la /var/lib/dkms/
ls -la /etc/dkms/

These directories should exist and have appropriate permissions for DKMS operations. The /var/lib/dkms/ directory stores compiled modules and build artifacts, while /etc/dkms/ contains configuration files and module specifications.

DKMS Configuration and Management

Understanding DKMS Directory Structure

DKMS organizes files and configurations using a standardized directory hierarchy that facilitates module management and system integration. The primary configuration directory /etc/dkms contains module-specific configuration files and global DKMS settings. Each managed module requires a subdirectory within this location containing the essential dkms.conf configuration file.

The /var/lib/dkms directory serves as the primary storage location for compiled modules, build artifacts, and installation status information. This directory structure includes subdirectories for each module version, maintaining separation between different module releases and enabling rollback capabilities when necessary.

Source code repositories reside in /usr/src following standard Linux filesystem hierarchy conventions. Module developers place source code in versioned directories within this location, allowing DKMS to locate and process module sources during compilation procedures. Understanding this structure proves essential for troubleshooting compilation issues and managing custom modules effectively.

Creating Module Configurations

Module configuration files define the essential parameters for DKMS operations, including build commands, installation locations, and dependency specifications. The dkms.conf file uses a simple key-value format that specifies module behavior during compilation and installation procedures.

Essential configuration parameters include:

PACKAGE_NAME="module_name"
PACKAGE_VERSION="1.0.0"
MAKE="make -C src/"
CLEAN="make -C src/ clean"
BUILT_MODULE_NAME="module_name"
DEST_MODULE_LOCATION="/kernel/drivers/misc"
AUTOINSTALL="yes"

The PACKAGE_NAME and PACKAGE_VERSION parameters identify the module and its version for DKMS tracking purposes. These values must remain consistent across configuration updates to maintain proper module management. The MAKE directive specifies the compilation command, while CLEAN defines the cleanup procedure for removing build artifacts.

Module installation location is controlled by the DEST_MODULE_LOCATION parameter, which specifies the subdirectory within /lib/modules/<kernel-version>/ where the compiled module will be installed. The AUTOINSTALL directive enables automatic module rebuilding during kernel updates, ensuring continuous functionality without manual intervention.

DKMS Command Line Operations

DKMS provides comprehensive command-line utilities for managing module lifecycles, from initial installation through ongoing maintenance and removal procedures. The primary dkms command supports various subcommands for different module management operations.

Common DKMS operations include:

• dkms add: Register new modules with the DKMS framework
• dkms build: Compile registered modules for specific kernel versions
• dkms install: Install compiled modules into the kernel module directory
• dkms remove: Uninstall modules and remove them from DKMS management
• dkms status: Display current module status and installation information

Advanced operations support module versioning, kernel-specific builds, and batch processing for multiple modules simultaneously. These capabilities enable sophisticated module management strategies in complex enterprise environments.

Testing and Verification

Verifying DKMS Installation

Comprehensive testing validates DKMS functionality and ensures proper integration with the Rocky Linux 10 system. Begin verification by examining the DKMS status output to confirm successful initialization and proper configuration.

sudo dkms status

This command displays all modules currently managed by DKMS, including their versions, target kernels, and installation status. Fresh installations typically show no managed modules, which is expected behavior before adding custom drivers or modules.

System log analysis provides additional verification of DKMS functionality. Examine system logs for DKMS-related messages during boot and module operations:

sudo journalctl | grep -i dkms
sudo grep -i dkms /var/log/messages

These commands reveal DKMS activity during system startup and module management operations. Look for successful initialization messages and absence of error reports indicating proper system integration.

Testing Module Functionality

Module testing procedures verify that DKMS can successfully build, install, and load kernel modules as intended. Create a simple test configuration to validate the complete DKMS workflow without relying on complex third-party modules.

Monitor system performance during module operations to identify any resource constraints or compatibility issues. Use system monitoring tools to track CPU usage, memory consumption, and I/O activity during module compilation and installation procedures.

Verify automatic module rebuilding functionality by simulating kernel updates and confirming that DKMS properly detects and rebuilds affected modules. This testing ensures that the automated rebuilding process works correctly in production environments.

Common Use Cases and Real-World Applications

NVIDIA GPU Drivers with DKMS

Graphics workstations and compute nodes frequently require NVIDIA proprietary drivers for optimal performance and feature support. DKMS integration with NVIDIA drivers ensures continuous compatibility across kernel updates, preventing graphics system failures during routine maintenance.

The installation process begins with downloading the official NVIDIA driver package configured for DKMS support. These packages automatically integrate with the DKMS framework, creating appropriate configuration files and build procedures for the specific graphics hardware.

Prerequisites include disabling nouveau drivers and configuring secure boot settings when necessary. The nouveau driver conflicts with proprietary NVIDIA drivers and must be blacklisted before installation. Secure boot environments require additional configuration using mokutil to register driver signing keys.

DKMS ensures NVIDIA drivers remain functional across kernel updates without manual intervention. The automated rebuilding process handles driver compilation using the appropriate kernel headers, maintaining graphics functionality throughout system maintenance cycles.

ZFS Filesystem Support

Advanced storage configurations often utilize ZFS for its reliability, performance, and management features. ZFS implementation on Rocky Linux requires kernel modules that benefit significantly from DKMS automation.

ZFS module installation typically involves adding the ZFS repository and installing the zfs-dkms package, which provides DKMS integration for ZFS components. This approach ensures ZFS modules remain compatible with kernel updates, preventing storage system failures during routine maintenance.

Troubleshooting ZFS module loading issues often involves verifying kernel header compatibility and resolving dependency conflicts. DKMS simplifies this process by automating module rebuilding when kernel versions change, reducing administrative overhead for storage system maintenance.

LXD Container Platform

Container virtualization platforms like LXD require specific kernel modules for advanced networking and storage features. DKMS integration ensures these modules remain available across kernel updates, maintaining container functionality in production environments.

LXD installation on Rocky Linux typically includes DKMS as a dependency, highlighting the framework’s importance for container platform stability. The automated module management provided by DKMS reduces maintenance complexity for container infrastructure.

AMD ROCm Platform

High-performance computing and machine learning workloads often utilize AMD GPUs through the ROCm platform. ROCm drivers require kernel modules that benefit from DKMS automation, ensuring compute capabilities remain available across system updates.

AMD ROCm installation involves complex driver packages that integrate with DKMS for automated management. This integration prevents compute platform failures during kernel updates, supporting continuous operation of critical workloads.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Module Compilation Failures

Compilation errors represent the most common DKMS-related issues, typically resulting from missing dependencies, incompatible kernel versions, or insufficient system resources. Systematic troubleshooting approaches help identify and resolve these problems efficiently.

Missing kernel headers frequently cause compilation failures, particularly after kernel updates that don’t automatically install corresponding development packages. Verify that kernel-devel and kernel-headers packages match the running kernel version:

uname -r
rpm -qa | grep kernel-devel
rpm -qa | grep kernel-headers

Version mismatches require installing the correct development packages for the active kernel. Use specific package versions to ensure compatibility:

sudo dnf install kernel-devel-$(uname -r) kernel-headers-$(uname -r)

Compiler version compatibility issues can prevent successful module compilation, particularly with older module sources designed for specific GCC versions. Check compiler version and module requirements to identify potential conflicts.

Insufficient system resources during compilation affect systems with limited RAM or CPU capabilities. Monitor system resource usage during compilation and consider adjusting compilation parameters or upgrading hardware for complex modules.

Kernel Update Problems

Failed automatic rebuilds during kernel updates can leave systems with non-functional modules, particularly affecting critical drivers like graphics or storage controllers. Systematic recovery procedures restore module functionality and prevent system instability.

Manual module reconstruction provides recovery options when automatic rebuilding fails. Identify affected modules using dkms status and manually rebuild them for the new kernel version:

sudo dkms build -m <module_name> -v <version> -k $(uname -r)
sudo dkms install -m <module_name> -v <version> -k $(uname -r)

Version compatibility troubleshooting involves checking module source compatibility with newer kernel APIs. Some modules require updates or patches to work with recent kernel versions, necessitating source code modifications or alternative module versions.

Rollback strategies help recover from failed kernel updates by reverting to previous kernel versions with known-working modules. Boot loader configuration allows selecting previous kernels until module compatibility issues are resolved.

Permission and Security Issues

Insufficient privilege errors typically occur when DKMS operations are attempted without appropriate administrative rights. Verify sudo configuration and user group membership to ensure proper permissions for DKMS operations.

Secure boot integration challenges arise in environments that enforce kernel module signing requirements. DKMS-compiled modules may require signing with machine owner keys (MOK) to load successfully in secure boot environments.

SELinux compatibility considerations affect module loading in environments with enforced security policies. Check SELinux contexts and policies that might prevent DKMS modules from loading correctly:

sudo getenforce
sudo sealert -a /var/log/audit/audit.log

File system permission corrections ensure that DKMS can access necessary directories and files during compilation and installation procedures. Verify permissions on /var/lib/dkms, /usr/src, and module source directories.

Best Practices and Maintenance

System Maintenance Guidelines

Regular DKMS monitoring ensures early detection of module problems and prevents system instability. Implement routine checks of DKMS status and system logs to identify potential issues before they impact system functionality.

sudo dkms status
sudo journalctl -u dkms --since "1 week ago"

Proactive module testing before production deployment reduces the risk of compatibility issues in critical environments. Test new modules in development environments that mirror production configurations, verifying functionality across different kernel versions and hardware configurations.

Backup strategies for custom modules protect against configuration loss and enable rapid recovery from system failures. Maintain copies of module source code, configuration files, and compiled binaries in secure locations separate from production systems.

Documentation requirements for enterprise environments include maintaining records of installed modules, configuration changes, and troubleshooting procedures. This documentation supports team collaboration and enables efficient problem resolution during maintenance windows.

Performance Optimization

Resource allocation for module compilation affects system performance during DKMS operations. Schedule compilation activities during low-usage periods and consider dedicating system resources to compilation processes when building complex modules.

Maintenance window scheduling coordinates DKMS operations with planned system maintenance to minimize service disruption. Plan kernel updates and module rebuilds during approved maintenance windows, allowing sufficient time for testing and validation.

Monitoring system impact of DKMS operations helps identify performance bottlenecks and resource constraints. Use system monitoring tools to track resource usage during compilation and installation procedures, optimizing configurations for better performance.

Large-scale deployment optimization techniques include centralized module building, package repositories for compiled modules, and automated deployment scripts that reduce manual effort and ensure consistency across multiple systems.

Advanced Topics and Future Considerations

Integration with CI/CD Pipelines

Modern infrastructure automation benefits from integrating DKMS operations into continuous integration and deployment workflows. Automated testing frameworks can validate module functionality across different kernel versions before production deployment.

Version control for module configurations ensures consistency and enables tracking of configuration changes over time. Git repositories can store DKMS configurations, module sources, and deployment scripts, supporting collaborative development and change management processes.

Testing frameworks for DKMS-managed modules should include compilation verification, installation testing, and functional validation across multiple kernel versions. Automated testing reduces manual effort and improves reliability of module deployments.

Rocky Linux 10 Specific Considerations

Rocky Linux 10 introduces enhanced security features and updated package management systems that may affect DKMS operation. Stay informed about distribution-specific changes that could impact module compatibility or installation procedures.

Long-term support implications for enterprise users include understanding the support lifecycle for DKMS and managed modules. Plan for module updates and compatibility maintenance throughout the system lifecycle, considering vendor support and community maintenance commitments.

New features in Rocky Linux 10 may provide enhanced DKMS capabilities or alternative approaches to kernel module management. Evaluate these features for potential benefits in your environment while maintaining compatibility with existing configurations.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed DKMS. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) on your Rocky Linux 10 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official DKMS website.