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Linus Torvalds has announced the release of Linux kernel version 6.6 after a calm development process. The release comes after Torvalds expressed concerns about the size of the release candidate 7 but assured that there were no showstopper issues. The new version introduces several notable features and improvements.

One major highlight is the inclusion of the KSMBD in-kernel server for the SMB networking protocol. This update enhances file sharing and inter-process communication in Linux, which is expected to improve input/output performance.

Intel’s Shadow Stack technology, designed to prevent return-oriented programming attacks, has also been added to the kernel. This security feature now also protects AMD CPUs. In addition, initial tests conducted on AMD’s “Bergamo” CPUs showed significant performance gains due to the inclusion of the Earliest Eligible Virtual Deadline First (EEVDF) scheduler. Intel CPUs also experienced the benefits of this scheduler.

Moreover, the kernel now supports AMD’s Dynamic Boost Control technology, allowing users to optimize the performance of Ryzen CPUs. This will benefit certain Lenovo laptops that come pre-installed with Linux.

Other improvements include enhanced support for RISC-V guests in the KVM hypervisor, a new Linux-based driver for making BIOS tweaks on HP laptops, and increased temperature and voltage sensor support for desktop motherboards.

A notable change in this release is the removal of references to the United States National Security Agency (NSA). The Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) module, historically associated with the NSA, has now been rebranded as “SELinux” in an effort to distance itself from the agency’s privacy concerns.

Linux kernel version 6.6 is expected to become this year’s long-term support release, although the decision to decrease support from six to two years has caused some controversy. As always, Torvalds has already opened the merge window for the next kernel version. However, the development of Linux 6.7 may face some complications due to Torvalds’ travel plans and the approaching holiday season.

Sources: [source]

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