Kernel-install

kernel-install(8) is a script used to automatically move kernels and their respective initramfs images to the boot partition (usually mounted at /boot or /efi). It uses a script system which can extend its functionality. It also creates boot entries for systemd-boot for the installed kernel and initramfs.

Installation

kernel-install is part of and packaged with systemd.

Usage

The kernel-install script is not an initramfs generator itself, but uses another program, such as mkinitcpio or dracut to generate an initramfs. In order to use an initramfs, an initramfs generator must be installed.

Adding kernels

One can install a kernel from /usr/lib/modules as follows:

# kernel-install add A.B.C-name /usr/lib/modules/A.B.C-name/vmlinuz

Removing kernels

To remove a kernel, use the remove subcommand:

# kernel-install remove A.B.C-name

Tips and tricks

Pacman hook

For a pacman hook triggering on update of a kernel package to install that kernel automatically, pacman-hook-kernel-install^AUR can be installed.

Unified kernel images

See Unified kernel image#kernel-install

See also

• kernel-install(8)