Linux driver practices
FreeStep-by-step Linux kernel driver practice examples
FreeFree tier
About Linux driver practices
A collection of Linux driver practice exercises, from basic 'hello world' kernel modules to advanced topics like GPIO interrupts, cryptographic operations, and file access within modules. Based on the reference '動手寫 Linux Driver', it provides step-by-step examples covering character devices, user-kernel data access, dynamic registration, IOCTL, multiplexing, and more. Includes environment setup instructions for Arch Linux, with guidance on installing toolchains, kernel headers, and device tree compiler.
Key Features
61 commits covering 18 practice modules
Examples include hellodriver, character device, user-kernel data access, dynamic register, printk message levels, private data, auto device node, kprobe, locking, IOCTL, device packaged data, multiplexing, lseek, file access in module, export symbol, framework, GPIO interrupt, and crypto
Environment preparation guide for Arch Linux: install git, make, gcc, kernel headers (x86, ARMv7), and DTC
Open source repository with C (87.7%), Makefile (11.9%), Shell (0.4%)
180 stars, 62 forks, 13 watchers on GitHub
Reference from the book '動手寫 Linux Driver'
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Well-structured progression from simple to advanced driver concepts
- Practical examples with clear directory organization
- Includes modern Linux kernel mechanisms like kprobe and device tree
- Open source and freely accessible on GitHub
- Support for both x86 and ARM architecture kernel headers
Cons
- Documentation is only in English and Chinese (reference book is Chinese)
- Environment setup instructions limited to Arch Linux; no guides for other distributions
- No releases or tagged versions, relies on master branch
- May not cover all Linux driver frameworks (e.g., PCI, USB, network drivers)
Best For
Learning Linux kernel driver development through hands-on examplesPracticing writing character device drivers and interacting with user spaceUnderstanding kernel module compilation, loading, and debugging techniquesPreparing development environment for embedded Linux driver workTeaching or self-study material for embedded systems programming
FAQ
What Linux kernel versions are supported?
The repository does not specify supported kernel versions; users should adjust examples to their kernel version.
Do I need a specific development board?
The examples are designed for general Linux systems, but ARM examples may require a board with appropriate device tree.
Is there a recommended IDE or editor?
No specific IDE is mentioned; the setup uses command-line tools like git, make, gcc.
How do I get started?
Clone the repository, install required development tools (linux-headers, gcc, make), and build the modules in each directory.