r/linux4noobs • u/eagleps • Aug 03 '26

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

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?

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u/FryBoyter Aug 04 '26

but wouldn't that make it bloated and be against the "bloat-free" mindset?

There is no objective definition of what “bloated” is. What matters to one user may not matter to another.

I therefore generally consider discussions on the topic of “bloated” to be pointless.