Description of problem: Certain networking drivers are requiring more than 4k stack size. Many users do not know (and probably never will) how to build a custom kernel with increased stack size so they can get their networking drivers working. Suggest that the stack size in the default kernels in the distributions be increased to probably 16k. Version-Release number of selected component (if applicable): How reproducible: Steps to Reproduce: 1. 2. 3. Actual results: Expected results: Additional info:
You neglected to point to a single example of a driver requiring excessive amounts of stack. If one exists, it needs to be fixed, not band-aided around with ugly hacks. (And NDISWrapper doesn't count as a 'driver' btw).
Ok, the one that I am familiar with is the Broadcom wireless driver bcm43xx which I personally have not been able to get working with the xen kernel. I also went looking for more information and came across this page at Linuxant: http://www.linuxant.com/driverloader/wlan/full/downloads-fc6-i686.php As you can see they are even distributing modified FC6 kernels in order to try to help people get their wireless cards working and stable. The forums are full of lengthy discussion on this issue as people are struggling to get wireless workin If Broadcom who has a big chunk of the market needs more stack size, then Redhat needs to have a conversation with them as to why that is necessary and either Broadcom or Redhat needs to make some adjustment. Just telling people that they need a custom kernel to get wireless working isn't a good solution.
I see no evidence of excessive stack usage in bcm43xx. What other vendors decide to do with their kernels is irrelevant to the Fedora kernel. The Fedora kernel isn't changing to accomodate the ease of use of binary drivers.