Where do you apply changes affecting the kernel parameters in Linux?

Changes to kernel parameters in Linux are applied through the configuration file located in /etc/sysctl.conf or by using the sysctl command directly on the command line. The /etc/sysctl file is specifically designed for this purpose and allows you to set or modify various kernel parameters at boot time.

When a system boots, the settings defined in /etc/sysctl.conf are applied to control kernel behavior and system performance. To make changes effective immediately, you can use the sysctl command followed by the specific parameters you wish to modify, making it a flexible option for both temporary and permanent changes.

Other options, like /proc and /sys, do contain kernel parameters and provide dynamic insights into kernel states or allow for real-time changes. However, they do not offer a straightforward way for persistent configuration across reboots. The /etc/hosts file is unrelated to kernel parameters and is used primarily for hostname resolution, further highlighting why /etc/sysctl is the correct choice for kernel parameter changes.