Берем первый диск, находим файл /install/doc/ch-post-install.en.html и
читаем:
Why would someone want to compile a new kernel? It is often not necessary since
the default kernel shipped with Debian handles most configurations. However,
it is useful to compile a new kernel in order to:
* handle special hardware needs, or hardware conflicts with the pre-supplied kernels
* handle hardware or options not included in the stock kernel, such as APM or SMP
* The compact and idepci flavors don't come with sound. Although the vanilla kernel does, it might not work for other reasons.
* optimize the kernel by removing useless drivers to speed up boot time
* use options of the kernel which are not supported by the default kernel (such as network firewalling)
* run a updated or development kernel
* impress your friends, try new things
Don't be afraid to try compiling the kernel. It's fun and profitable.
Больше всего мне нравится последняя фраза :)
Кстати, на диске с potato этот файл был и на русском.