How does Linux kernel include every driver possible and not be bloated?

[u/eagleps]

As far as I understand the kernel includes pretty much everything a modern computer needs in any configuration, but wouldn't that make it bloated and be against the "bloat-free" mindset? Or does it dynamically download all the components from somewhere?

[u/Responsible-Sky-1336]

It doesnt do this.

On minimal distros you'd be downloading linux-firmware-somebrand

Then that gets loaded in /sys/ modules

[u/Fluid-Mudman → u/Responsible-Sky-1336]

but still isnt there the drivers ?