In 2025, with the deep integration of cloud native and edge computing, managing Linux kernel modules on VPSs (Virtual Private Servers) will remain a core skill that system administrators and developers must master. As a key component that extends operating system functionality, efficient and secure management of kernel modules directly impacts the stability, security, and performance of cloud services. This article systematically introduces a comprehensive set of tools and best practices for managing Linux kernel modules in modern VPS environments.

The first priority in kernel module management is to accurately obtain detailed information about the current system kernel and modules. This is not only fundamental to operations but also a prerequisite for troubleshooting and performance optimization. The `uname -r` command can quickly determine the currently running kernel version, a key parameter for many subsequent operations. The most direct command to list all currently loaded kernel modules is `lsmod`, which concisely displays the module name, memory usage, and dependencies. To view detailed information about a specific module, such as the nvidia driver module, use the `modinfo nvidia` command. This command returns a wealth of information, including the module's path, version, author, license, and any dependencies, providing essential data for in-depth debugging.

Dynamic module loading and unloading is a common requirement. When adding new functionality to the system (such as support for a new file system or hardware device), the `insmod` command can be used to insert a specific kernel module. However, a more intelligent and commonly used command is `modprobe`, which not only loads a specific module but also automatically resolves and satisfies its dependencies, significantly reducing management complexity. For example, to load the `vboxguest` module, simply execute:

sudo modprobe vboxguest

Similarly, the `modprobe -r` command can be used to safely remove a module. The system automatically checks whether the module is currently in use and its dependencies. To completely disable a module from loading automatically at boot, simply add it to the blacklist configuration file:

echo "blacklist nouveau" | sudo tee -a /etc/modprobe.d/blacklist.conf

With the evolution of kernel development tools in 2025, a series of more powerful auxiliary tools have become standard for VPS management. The `kmod` suite provides modern implementations of all core functions, including `lsmod`, `insmod`, `rmmod`, `modprobe`, and `depmod`, offering superior compatibility and performance compared to traditional tools. For advanced users who need to monitor module dynamics in real time, the `module-assistant` (or `m-a`) tool can automatically build external modules (such as ZFSSPL) that strictly match the current kernel version, perfectly resolving module incompatibilities caused by kernel version changes. Furthermore, frameworks like dkms (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) are becoming increasingly important. They allow third-party kernel modules (such as VirtualBox Guest Additions or specific wireless network card drivers) to be automatically recompiled and deployed after kernel upgrades, greatly simplifying long-term maintenance. Installing and configuring dkms typically involves the following steps:

sudo apt install dkms # Using Debian/Ubuntu as an example
sudo dkms add -m vboxguest -v 6.1.38
sudo dkms build -m vboxguest -v 6.1.38
sudo dkms install -m vboxguest -v 6.1.38

Security is paramount in kernel module management. In cloud environments, strictly prohibiting the loading of unreviewed and unsigned kernel modules is a fundamental security principle. Modern Linux distributions generally enable Secure Boot, which means that the kernel will enforce module digital signature verification. Administrators should always obtain modules from trusted software sources and regularly verify the signature status of critical modules using the `modinfo` command. Furthermore, monitoring illegal use of the `init_module` (module loading) and `delete_module` (module deletion) system calls using auditing frameworks such as `auditd` is an effective defense against privilege escalation attacks.

Automation and reliable operations are hallmarks of modern VPS management. Encapsulating key kernel module management operations into playbooks or manifests within configuration management tools such as Ansible, SaltStack, or Puppet ensures consistent module status management across clusters. Furthermore, integrating module health checks into monitoring systems such as Prometheus and Nagios provides real-time alerts for abnormal statuses such as module load failures or version mismatches, enabling a shift from a reactive to proactive operational model.

The Linux kernel module management toolchain continues to evolve in 2025. Deep integration with eBPF technology allows developers to extend kernel functionality more securely and efficiently, reducing reliance on traditional kernel modules to some extent. Everyone should understand and master the complete toolset from basic commands to advanced frameworks, which will help build the core capabilities of a stable, secure and efficient service foundation in their work.