Build and Run Linux Kernel

from the scratch to the prompt

A short course on downloading and compiling the Linux Kernel Source code. Configure the kernel for AARM64 target, learn device tree, ramdisk and other preconditions to boot the kernel from scratch. Everything from the basics without using tools like yocto or buildroot.


Bestseller Beginner Intermediate

(5) 2000+ students enrolled.

Last updated: 19 September 2025 | English | 365 days Access.


includes

~ 3 Hours  of recorded video lectures.
15  lessons.
Emulator  based experiments.
3  downloadable resources.
Certificate  on completion of course.
Cheat sheets and/or quick reference guides.
Case studies based on open-source code.
Coding exercises and challenges.
1 End-to-end project implementations.

what you will master through the journey

Understanding the Linux Kernel.
Setting Up the Development Environment.
Building the Linux Kernel.
Configuring BusyBox.
Running on QEMU.
Troubleshooting and Debugging.
Real-World Applications.
Understanding the Boot flow.
Use of Device Tree
Ramdisk and how to create it.

course contents and preview lectures ...

Introduction

This introductory section lays the foundation for building the Linux kernel from scratch, providing essential knowledge and tools to kickstart your journey. Covers the critical first steps to set up a robust development environment and understand the process of compiling and customizing the Linux kernel

Cheat sheet
Environment and Plan
Using docker to create a linux host machine

Setup, Build and Run

This section guides you through the hands-on process of setting up, compiling, and booting a Linux kernel from scratch. Focused on practical implementation, it walks you through installing necessary tools, building the kernel, creating a minimal filesystem with BusyBox, and successfully booting your custom kernel.

Installing the toolchain and utilities
Compiling the kernel
Ramdisk and busybox
Getting and building busybox
Creating the ramfs image
Booting the kernel

Trim the Kernel

This section focuses on optimizing and customizing the Linux kernel by trimming unnecessary components to create a lean, efficient system tailored to specific needs. You’ll learn how to use configuration tools and modify the kernel’s configuration file to streamline its functionality, reducing its footprint while maintaining essential features.

menuconfig and .config
The trimmed Linux Kernel
the .config file

Recap and Conclusion

This concluding section consolidates your learning by revisiting the key steps involved in building the Linux kernel from scratch, emphasizing their importance and practical implications. It also introduces advanced concepts like the Device Tree and provides valuable resources for further exploration. This section is designed to reinforce your understanding and equip you with tools for continued learning and kernel development.

Revisiting all the steps and the significance
(Bonus) Device Tree
Resources and Pointers

Course Highlights

  • Hands-On Approach: Follow along with practical, real-time demonstrations of each step, from source code to a running system.
  • ARM64 Focus: Target the ARM64 architecture, widely used in modern devices like servers, mobile devices, and embedded systems.
  • Minimalist Userspace with BusyBox: Learn to create a compact and efficient userspace to complement your kernel.
  • QEMU Virtualization: Harness the power of QEMU to test and experiment without needing physical hardware.
  • Expert Guidance: Benefit from clear explanations and best practices for kernel development and system emulation.

By the end of this course, you’ll have the skills and confidence to build, configure, and run your own Linux kernel on an ARM64 QEMU virtual machine, complete with a BusyBox-based userspace.

Certificate

The journey through the course is a challenging one! Our courses are packed with insights and will take time to sink in. You will be awarded with a Certificate of Mastery when you complete 95% of the course work.

What you see above is a sample certificate. The design of this certificate will be modified from time to time to make it more shiny and reflect the rightly earned pride!

There will always be a dedicated certificate identification number to verify it with us. This should enable anyone to check the authenticity of the certificate.

How this is different from Others

FeatureUs!Others
compile from source
install toolchain
explain the boot flow
configure the kernel with external tools (yocto, buildroot etc)
explain the significance of each step
explain the reasons behind device tree
explain ramdisk and the reasons
cover preconditions for the kernel to boot
trim the kernel to minimal

Instructors

Piyush Itankar
Embedded Engineer (L5), Google
Electrical Engineer holding a Master’s degree in Embedded Systems, with a proven track record at industry giants. At Intel, contributed expertise to Navigation Firmware, Bluetooth Driver development, and RF validation software. Currently thriving as an Embedded Software Engineer at Google, drove innovation in Firmware development for the Power Management Sub-system on Tensor SoCs (Pixel Phones) and presently advancing system software for the Pixel Watch.

Requirements

Basic familiarity with Linux command-line tools.
Understanding of C programming and system architecture concepts is helpful but not required.
A computer with a Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu) for development.

Who this course is for

Developers interested in Linux kernel development or embedded systems.
System administrators looking to understand low-level system operations.
Hobbyists and students eager to explore ARM64 architecture and virtualization.
Anyone curious about building and running a custom Linux kernel from scratch.

FAQs

Is this course good for beginners?

Yes! The course is taught as if the learner has no idea about the Linux Kernel


Why is the course validity 365 days?

We need to maintain the servers that host the courses. At the moment we have enough capital to keep the server afloat for another until. We are striving to make this a lifetime access course. As the funds trickle in, we will revisit the validity and might update it for all the enrolled learners.


Do I need a special machine configuration to take this course?

You will need to be on a Linux machine and if not then be have Windows or Mac that is capable of running docker.


Can I change my email-id post purchase?

As much as we'd like to support that, your account will be linked to your email-id post purchase.


What name will be printed on the Certificate?

The name you use on the platform will be printed as is on the Certificate when it is generated.


Can I follow the steps on my own PC?

Yes for the most part. Better yet would be if you have a linux machine.


Is this course part of the `Library Access?`

Yes. If you are subscribed to the Library Access, this course should already be available to you.