Optimization with kldload (superb configs)

Turbocharge FreeBSD with kldload: Disk and Monitor Tweaks

Hey, FreeBSD enthusiasts! Want to squeeze every bit of performance from your system? Whether you’re spinning an old HDD, rocking a fast SSD, or using a trusty VGA monitor, this guide dives into using kldload to load kernel modules that boost disk I/O and optimize your display. These tweaks are perfect for reviving that ancient PC or fine-tuning a modern rig. No deep dives into manuals needed – just a few commands to make your FreeBSD scream. Let’s get started!

Why Use kldload for Tweaking?

FreeBSD’s kldload lets you dynamically load kernel modules to enhance performance without rebuilding the kernel. Pair that with tweaks to rc.conf, sysctl.conf, and fstab, and you’ve got a lean, mean FreeBSD setup. Whether you’re coding in a terminal or running a server, these configs will make your disk faster and your monitor sharper.

What You’ll Need

FreeBSD 14.1 or newer installed.
Root access.
A disk (HDD or SSD) and a monitor (VGA, HDMI, or similar).
15 minutes to supercharge your system.

Tweak #1: Boost Disk Performance with kldload

Let’s make your disk – HDD or SSD – fly with kernel modules and config tweaks. We’ll use kldload to load modules for better I/O and optimize UFS filesystem settings.

Load geom_uzip for Compression (Optional for SSDs)
If you’re using an SSD and want to save space with compression, load the geom_uzip module. This is great for read-heavy workloads. Run as root:
```
kldload geom_uzip
```
To load it at boot, edit /boot/loader.conf:
```
vi /boot/loader.conf
```
Add:
```
geom_uzip_load="YES"
```
Note: Compression may slow down writes on HDDs, so skip this for spinning disks unless you need it.
Enable Soft Updates and Journaling
Soft updates and journaling improve UFS performance and reliability. Load the geom_journal module for journaling:
```
kldload geom_journal
```
Make it permanent in /boot/loader.conf:
```
echo 'geom_journal_load="YES"' >> /boot/loader.conf
```
Enable soft updates in /etc/rc.conf:
```
vi /etc/rc.conf
```
Add:
```
softupdates="YES"
fsck_y_enable="YES"
```
This groups disk writes for speed and ensures non-blocking filesystem checks.
Optimize Filesystem with noatime
Disabling access time updates reduces disk writes, helping both HDDs and SSDs. Check your disk device (e.g., ada0) with:
```
df -h
```
Edit /etc/fstab:
```
vi /etc/fstab
```
Add noatime:
```
/dev/ada0p2 / ufs rw,noatime 1 1
```
Note: noatime is safer than async and works well for both disk types.
Tune I/O Scheduler
Boost read performance with sysctl. Run:
```
sysctl vfs.read_max=64
```
For persistence, edit /etc/sysctl.conf:
```
vi /etc/sysctl.conf
```
Add:
```
vfs.read_max=64
```
This optimizes read-ahead for HDDs and small file access for SSDs.

Tweak #2: Optimize Monitor Setup with kldload

Get your monitor – VGA or modern HDMI – looking crisp with kernel modules for graphics and X11 tweaks for resolution and terminal style.

Load Graphics Driver Module
For Intel, AMD, or basic VGA graphics, load the appropriate kernel module. For example, for Intel graphics (common on older PCs):
```
kldload i915kms
```
For AMD, try:
```
kldload amdgpu
```
For generic VGA, the vesa module often works:
```
kldload vesa
```
Make it permanent in /boot/loader.conf:
```
echo 'i915kms_load="YES"' >> /boot/loader.conf
```
Replace i915kms with your module (amdgpu or vesa). Check your hardware with:
```
pciconf -lv
```
Set Resolution and Refresh Rate
Install X11 if needed:
```
pkg install xorg
```
Check resolutions with xrandr:
```
xrandr
```
Set a resolution (e.g., 1280×1024 at 60Hz for VGA):
```
xrandr --output VGA-1 --mode 1280x1024 --rate 60
```
Replace VGA-1 with your output name. Make it permanent in ~/.xprofile:
```
echo "xrandr --output VGA-1 --mode 1280x1024 --rate 60" >> ~/.xprofile
```
Style Your Terminal
Reduce eye strain with a dark terminal theme. Add to ~/.Xresources:
```
echo "xterm*background: black" >> ~/.Xresources
echo "xterm*foreground: green" >> ~/.Xresources
xrdb ~/.Xresources
```
This creates a retro green-on-black terminal for that classic Unix vibe.

Tweak #3: Tie It Together with resolv.conf

If you’re running a local DNS server (like Unbound), ensure your system uses it for fast lookups. Edit /etc/resolv.conf:

vi /etc/resolv.conf

Add:

nameserver 127.0.0.1

This points your system to your local DNS server, boosting network performance.

Pro Tips for Your Tweaked FreeBSD

HDD vs. SSD: Check your disk type with dmesg | grep disk. HDDs benefit from soft updates and journaling; SSDs love noatime.
Graphics Modules: If i915kms or amdgpu don’t work, try vesa for basic VGA support. Use kldstat to verify loaded modules.
Extra Performance: Disable unused services in rc.conf (e.g., sendmail_enable="NONE") to free up resources.

Why FreeBSD Loves kldload

FreeBSD’s modular kernel and kldload make it a tweaker’s dream, letting you add features like compression or graphics support on the fly. These tweaks optimize your disk for speed and your monitor for clarity, whether you’re running a server or a desktop. Check out man kldload or the FreeBSD Handbook for more tuning ideas.

Your Turn!

Your FreeBSD is now a performance powerhouse with a sharp display! Feeling the disk speed boost or loving that retro terminal? Share your favorite tweaks or config tips in the comments. Want more FreeBSD guides, like firewall rules or jail setups? Let me know! Sources: FreeBSD Handbook, community tips from X, and Unix tuning know-how. See you next time!