whatis dkms
DKMS
Also known as: Dynamic Kernel Module Support
A framework that automatically rebuilds out-of-tree kernel modules, like NVIDIA or ZFS drivers, whenever a new kernel is installed.
What Is DKMS in Linux?
Modules that are not part of the mainline kernel must be compiled against each kernel version. DKMS keeps the module source and hooks into kernel package installation to rebuild it, so the driver still works after an update.
If a DKMS build fails (often because the kernel is too new for the driver), the system may boot without that driver. dkms status shows what is built for which kernel.
Example
dkms statusLearn more about DKMS
- DKMS Explained: Why Your Driver Breaks on Kernel Updates Out-of-tree kernel modules have to be rebuilt for every kernel. DKMS automates that, and understanding it is the difference between a routine update and booting to a black screen.
- NVIDIA Drivers on Linux: Proprietary, Open Modules, and Nouveau Three driver options, a Secure Boot complication, and a DKMS rebuild that has ruined many a reboot. Here is which driver to install and how to keep it working across kernel updates.