LPIC-2 Exam 201 (Linux Engineer) — Question 17

If the file containing the Linux kernel is deleted, what happens when the system boots?

Answer options

• A. The system starts normally since the bootloader copies the kernel to the master boot record of the hard disk
• B. Instead of the kernel, the initramfs is loaded and instructed to mount the root filesystem and reinstall the kernel from the original package or from source
• C. The bootloader mounts the root filesystem read-only and launches /bin/sh directly in order to allow the administrator to reinstall the kernel
• D. Without a kernel system cannot boot and, depending on the bootloader, an error is displayed

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D because the Linux kernel is essential for the operating system to function. If it is missing, the system will not be able to boot, and the bootloader will likely display an error message. The other options incorrectly suggest that the system can proceed without the kernel or that the initramfs or shell can compensate for its absence.