Linux Kernel Development — Episode 5: Sending Patches

After making changes to the kernel, the next step is learning how to send patches.

This stage combines two tutorials:

• Sending patches by email with git
• Sending patches using a USP email setup

Unlike typical platforms like GitHub, the Linux kernel uses email as the primary method for code submission and review.

This requires configuring git send-email, understanding patch formatting, and ensuring that messages follow proper conventions.

Some key aspects include:

• Writing clear commit messages
• Setting correct To: and Cc: fields
• Using tools like get_maintainer.pl
• Testing patches before sending

Configuring email was one of the trickiest parts, especially when dealing with authentication and SMTP settings.

Once properly configured, sending a patch becomes a structured process:

• Generate patch
• Review it
• Send it to the appropriate mailing list

This is a fundamental skill for contributing to the kernel.