03. DKMS and Kernel Upgrades

Symptom

After a Linux kernel update, for example from 6.5 to 6.8, the driver no longer loads or the device is not detected.

Why DKMS Helps

DKMS (Dynamic Kernel Module Support) rebuilds registered external modules when a new kernel is installed. This keeps the KCAN driver synchronized with kernel updates without requiring a separate manual rebuild each time.

Installation

Using the SDK Script

sudo ./build.sh -dkms

Manual Build and Registration

sudo make clean
sudo make netdev
sudo make install_with_dkms

Verification

dkms status

The output should list the KCAN module and the active kernel version.