modprobe command in Linux

The modprobe command in Linux is used to manage kernel modules. It allows users to insert, remove, and manipulate modules in the Linux kernel. Modprobe can also automatically load dependencies for a module being added. This command is essential for managing hardware drivers and configuring the kernel. By understanding the modprobe command, users can efficiently handle kernel modules to optimize system performance.

modprobe Syntax:

modprobe [options] module_name

Linux modprobe Options:

Option	Description
-c	Use the specified configuration file
-v	Show verbose information
-n	Dry-run mode, show actions but do not execute them
-q	Quiet mode, suppress normal output
-r	Remove the specified module
-a	Insert module even if already loaded
-s	Log to the system log for each request
-t	Set timeout value for network request completion
-D	Consider dependencies during insertion and removal
-S	Compute and resolve all module symbols

modprobe Parameters:

Parameter	Description
module_name	Name of the module to insert or remove

Caution

Exercise caution when using the modprobe command, as improper usage can result in system instability or malfunction.

How to use modprobe command:

Load a Module

modprobe <module_name>

Load the specified module into the Linux kernel.

Remove a Module

modprobe -r <module_name>

Unload the specified module from the Linux kernel.

Show Currently Loaded Modules

modprobe -l

Display a list of modules that are currently loaded in the Linux kernel.

Display Information about a Module

modprobe -c | grep <module_name>

Retrieve detailed information about a specific module.

Load a Module with Specific Parameters

modprobe <module_name> param1=value1 param2=value2

Load the module with specific parameters provided as key-value pairs.

List Dependencies of a Module

modprobe -c | grep -A <number_of_lines> depends <module_name>

Display the dependencies of a specific module by searching the module config file.

Prevent Module Autoloading

echo "blacklist <module_name>" | sudo tee /etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf

Create a blacklist configuration file to prevent a module from autoloading.

Disable Module Loading during Boot

echo "install <module_name> /bin/true" | sudo tee -a /etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf

Prevent a specific module from loading during boot by setting the install command to /bin/true in the blacklist configuration file.

Tip

When using the modprobe command, make sure to specify the correct options and values according to the module you are working with. Incorrect usage may lead to errors or unexpected behavior.

How do I use modprobe in Linux?

To use the modprobe command in Linux, execute the following command:

modprobe --option <value>

What is the purpose of modprobe in Linux?

The modprobe command is used in Linux to add or remove kernel modules to the Linux kernel dynamically.

modprobe <module_name>

How can I list all currently loaded modules with modprobe?

To list all currently loaded modules using modprobe, run the following command:

lsmod

How do I remove a module using modprobe?

You can remove a module using modprobe in Linux with the following command:

modprobe -r <module_name>

Can I add multiple modules at once with modprobe?

Yes, you can add multiple modules at once using modprobe by listing them all in a single command:

modprobe <module1> <module2> <module3>

How can I get more information about a specific module using modprobe?

To get more information about a specific module using modprobe, you can use the modinfo command. For example:

modinfo <module_name>

How do I check if a module is currently loaded with modprobe?

You can check if a module is currently loaded with modprobe by using the following command:

lsmod | grep <module_name>

Is it possible to force loading a module with modprobe even if it might not be recommended?

Yes, you can force loading a module with modprobe even if it might not be recommended by using the --force option. For example:

modprobe --force <module_name>

How do I see the dependencies of a module with modprobe?

To see the dependencies of a module using modprobe, you can use the following command:

modprobe --show-depends <module_name>

Applications of the modprobe command

• Loading a specific kernel module
• Unloading a kernel module
• Listing currently loaded kernel modules
• Adding or removing kernel module dependencies
• Setting module options or parameters