This guide explains how to replace cPanel's hardened kernel with a standard third-party kernel. While cPanel provides a preconfigured hardened kernel, you have the flexibility to install an alternative kernel version. Note that this process requires a server reboot and will cause downtime, so plan accordingly.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, it is recommended to enable symlink protection when removing the hardened kernel. Ensure you have SSH root access to your server.

How to Replace the Kernel

  1. Step 1: Remove the cPanel kernel repository

    Log in to your server via SSH and remove the cPanel kernel repository file:

    rm /etc/yum.repos.d/cPkernel.repo

  2. Step 2: List available kernels

    View all available kernel versions that can be installed:

    yum list --showduplicates kernel

  3. Step 3: Install your chosen kernel

    Install the kernel version of your choice by replacing KERNELNAME with the specific version:

    yum install KERNELNAME

    For example, to install kernel version 2.6.32:

    yum install kernel-2.6.32

    Note: It is recommended to install the most recent stable kernel version available.

  4. Step 4: Reboot the server

    Once the installation is complete, reboot your server to load the new kernel:

    reboot