You Probably Don't Need to Compile a Linux Kernel Anymore
Quoting: You Probably Don't Need to Compile a Linux Kernel Anymore —
The Linux kernel is the heart of the system, handling almost all of the important functions, similar to other OSes. Microsoft Windows has a kernel, but a key difference from Windows is that you can make changes to the Linux kernel and recompile it, allowing you to redesign your own operating system.
You can choose the options you want in your kernel using a GUI-based or terminal-based menu system. While you don't have to be a developer, it helps to have some basic computer knowledge.