Build practical skills in Linux driver development through projects exploring diverse kernel subsystems, frameworks, and APIs and prepare for upstream contribution Free with your book: DRM-free PDF version + access to Packt's next-gen Reader*
Key Features
- Build practical kernel modules in C using mainline frameworks and APIs
- Explore diverse Linux subsystems through reproducible projects without specific hardware
- Follow driver workflows from development to testing, debugging, and upstream contribution
Book Description
Understanding how Linux interacts with hardware through device drivers can seem complex due to the intricacy of the kernel code and the fact that much existing material focuses on theoretical rather than practical aspects. Linux Device Driver Development Projects makes this journey approachable by guiding you through real kernel module projects that reveal how drivers connect the kernel with the physical world. Each chapter introduces a new subsystem, accompanied by a general framework or an API that extends its capabilities. In each project, you will write and test drivers for areas such as IIO, Input, and DRM while learning to use kernel features like regmap, device tree access, and power management. All projects run entirely in a virtual environment and require no dedicated hardware, so you can build, experiment, and debug safely on any system. By combining subsystem knowledge with real coding experience, the book helps you understand the complete driver workflow, from module setup and testing to preparing patches for mainline review. By the end, you will have the skills to create, modify, and debug Linux device drivers with confidence and be ready to contribute your work upstream. *Email sign-up and proof of purchase required
What you will learn
- Set up a complete Linux kernel build and module development environment
- Write, compile, and load kernel modules safely on any system or virtual machine
- Program Linux device drivers from simple character devices to advanced subsystems
- Use the device tree to describe and register hardware
- Apply kernel interfaces, APIs, and frameworks in real driver development
- Simulate hardware behavior to test and validate drivers without physical devices
- Apply debugging techniques for your drivers
- Prepare, document, and submit patches for review in the mainline Linux process
Who this book is for
This book is for C programmers, embedded Linux developers, and aspiring kernel developers who want practical experience building Linux device drivers. Readers should be comfortable with C, and while basic Linux familiarity is helpful, it is not essential. No prior kernel or driver development experience is required. It is also ideal for developers who want to understand Linux kernel subsystems and APIs, strengthen their driver development skills, or prepare to contribute code to the mainline Linux kernel.
