Quick Answer: What Are Linux Headers?
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linux-headers is a package providing the Linux kernel headers. These are part of the kernel, although they are shipped separately (further reasoning is available: [1]). The headers act as an interface between internal kernel components and also between userspace and the kernel.

Do I need linux headers?

You need the linux headers when you plan to develop and compile on the machine where you’ve installed Ubuntu. If you build an appliance dedicated to a specific task, you are certainly not willing to compile on it. If you need to compile your own application, you will do this on an different system.

Where are headers in linux?

The system’s libc headers are usually installed at the default location /usr/include and the kernel headers in subdirectories under that (most notably /usr/include/linux and /usr/include/asm).

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.

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