What does the 'modprobe' command do in relation to Linux kernel modules?

The 'modprobe' command is a powerful utility used in Linux for managing kernel modules. Its primary function is to load a module into the Linux kernel along with any dependencies that the module might have. When a module is loaded, 'modprobe' automatically resolves and loads any other modules that are required for the main module to function properly. This ensures that the necessary components are available for the module to operate, effectively simulating a more seamless and integrated loading process.

For instance, if a module relies on another module to function, 'modprobe' will identify that relationship and ensure that both modules are loaded in the correct order. This capability makes 'modprobe' an essential command for system administration, especially when dealing with hardware drivers or features that are not part of the default kernel configuration.

In contrast, other options represent different functionalities not assigned to 'modprobe'. Some commands may be focused on unloading modules, listing all currently loaded modules, or handling the installation of modules directly, but these specific tasks are outside the scope of what 'modprobe' achieves.