Kernels
Alpine Linux has several kernels (see linux-*) designed to suit different situations.
- linux-lts is the stock modular kernel and is configured for a generous selection of hardware.
- linux-virt (linux-lts, see the -virt configs) is recommended for Alpine Linux guests, and disables most hardware in favor of a commonly-virtualized subset of drivers.
- linux-rpi is optimized for the Raspberry Pi. There are also linux-rpi2 and linux-rpi4 optimized for the raspberry pi 2 and 4 respectively. See #15324 for future plans.
For installing a custom kernel, see Custom Kernel. To select a specific kernel or firmware packages during installation from the Alpine ISO, simply install the desired kernel flavor and firmware packages with apk add before running setup-alpine.
Firmware
The linux-firmware meta-package is included in the default installation, and depends on all firmware. It is a large download. You may be better served by installing only the firmware you need (see linux-firmware-*), or linux-firmware-none if you do not require any firmware. If you're unsure which firmware you need, boot with no firmware installed and run dmesg to get an idea. Be aware that most firmware is non-free.
Experimental Kernels
Some kernels are not well tested and are therefor only available in the testing repository. Use at own risk.
- linux-asahi for apple silicon
- linux-elm for elm chromebooks
- linux-gru for gru chromebooks