Monolithic vs Modular Kernel?

[David Naylor]

Hi,

What are the pros and cons of building a stripped down kernel and loading all 
the missing parts via modules (such that you end up with the same 
functionality as generic kernel) vs having a kernel with all the modules built 
in? 

Also, is there anyway to detect if there are hardware without drivers (such as 
a sound card without any snd_ loaded) and to detect the type of device (e.g. 
network, usb, sound, graphics)?

Lastly, is there any way to determine what 'modules' a kernel is build with?

Regards,

David
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