What is the use case of using: MODULE_SOFTDEP("pre: another-external-kernel-module..."); because I completely don't understand. If I have phandle to another-external-kernel-module in dts which is mandatory in my kernel driver then should I put this line in my kernel driver code? If I use function of core.c which is my framework and this is also as external module then should I put this line in my kernel driver code: MODULE_SOFTDEP("pre: testframework-core"); Who knows please respond as this is black magic for me.