A number of people run the kernel compiled from sources and each time you update its x.y.Z version you must recompile external kernel modules (virtualbox, vmware, nvidia, etc) to make them work.
Here's how you can avoid recompiling the external modules.
Once you apply a patch which raises the number Z, you edit the Makefile and revert the SUBLEVEL number to its original value. That's it. However you may eventually forget what new patch level you're actually running. To solve this issue I create a file Makefile.XX which indicates the actual kernel Z version, e.g. Makefile.11.
Extras: `make install` and `make modules_install` commands completely wipe /lib/modules/`uname -r`/kernel. In order to preserve your 3d party drivers, move them to /lib/modules/`uname -r`/misc. Don't forget to run `depmod -a` afterwards.
Tag: tips and tricks