Linux kernel version 6.12, which was launched in November 2024, has been designated as the upcoming long-term support (LTS) kernel. This implies that it will benefit from a minimum of two years' worth of maintenance updates, security corrections, and overall improvements. The core Linux kernel maintenance team will carry out this work, which means that it won't rely on the specific distribution that users have on their systems. This also suggests a high likelihood that 6.12 will be the final kernel release for 2024, following previous trends.
Exciting New Features
The cutting-edge kernel brings a multitude of new functionalities, alongside the latest security patches and stability enhancements. One of the most significant additions is the real-time execution feature, which has been in development for around two decades. This feature aims to greatly enhance real-time operations in fields like industrial applications by prioritizing certain tasks to occur within a specific timeframe, typically just a few milliseconds. While regular users might notice only a slight increase in speed, the main advantage of this update is its reliability. Real-time execution allows for nearly instant error reporting and quick execution of prerequisite tasks and processes. In essence, it enforces a strict timetable and resource allocation for each command, leading to greater reliability and often quicker operations.
More Improvements Ahead
This kernel version also incorporates substantial enhancements to file systems and extends support to a broader range of hardware than ever before. Additionally, it introduces error screens that feature QR codes, which can assist users and support personnel in simplifying the troubleshooting process, provided they have a smartphone at the time of the error. With all these new features, fixes, compatibility updates, and security patches on the way, Linux users should feel confident about upgrading to 6.12. The update process varies depending on the distribution, but it's generally manageable using the command line and the preferred package manager. For instance, Ubuntu users might execute "sudo apt update" to refresh the databases, followed by "sudo apt upgrade" to upgrade all available packages, including the kernel.
