Loopback Encrypted Filesystem HOWTO: Before you begin

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## 1. Before you begin

This process requires the kernel source code, knowledge of compiling this code, and a lot of patience. I highly recommend having a boot disk ready. Also, be sure to have a backup before you permanently store your important data on the encrypted filesystem - it can be corrupted like any other filesystem.

As a minimum, you will have to patch to at least version 2.2.9 of the linux kernel before continuing. There are further instructions on applying patches in the Details section later in this document.

Kernel source can be found at:

> `ftp://ftp.kerneli.org/`

There is a HOWTO on the process of recompiling kernels at:

> `http://metalab.unc.edu/LDP/HOWTO/`

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