The first major version of Linux kernel for this year is soon to be released with numerous enhancements. A detailed description of the new features and updates in Linux kernel 6.3 is given below.



Linux kernel 6.3 is presently undergoing development, with an expected release date of late April, following seven release candidates. It contains an extensive list of novel characteristics, bug fixes, and improvements, as is standard. The general changes in this kernel include BIG TCP support for IPv4 and IPv6 connections, improvements in UBS/Thunderbolt subsystem, and new hardware noise monitor tool named "hwnoise." Additionally, the newest Rust code in Linux kernel 6.3 includes various types such as Arc, ArcBorrow, and UniqueArc.

The CPU/memory-related modifications include enhancements in the scheduler, Restartable Sequences (RSEQ) system call, and updates to AMD and Intel P-State EPP, EDAC module, and Power Management Controller driver. There are also updates to support the TPM devices of Microsoft Pluton security hardware in the AMD Ryzen SoCs and Emerald Rapids Xeon CPUs in the Intel Idle driver, among others.

The new kernel has improved support for RISC-V architecture and ARM and RISC-V hardware. It also supports the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Qualcomm QDU1000 and QRU1000 5G RAN platforms, Rockchips chips, TI J784S4 processors, and other Arm-based hardware, while fixing a performance regression bug on Multi-Gen LRU.

In terms of memory, Compute Express Link (CXL) RAM /memory region updates and a change in policy for soft reservation are some of the key improvements. The new kernel further brings better support for first-gen CXL devices, LoongArch CPUs' Kernel Address Space Layout Randomization (KASLR) support, and kernel self-test support while dropping the custom Loongson1 CPUFreq driver.

Linux kernel 6.3 incorporates numerous changes related to GPU, file system/storage, virtualization, and other aspects. The DRM-Next update in this kernel addresses problems affecting GC11 on RDNA3 GPUs, AV1 video support, FreeSync, DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport, and other minor issues on AMD GPUs. It also enables access to PCIe information for better troubleshooting problems related to PCI Express lanes of the system. Additionally, the DRM-Intel-Next driver now supports Intel Meteor Lake hardware and brings SDP split support for DisplayPort 2.0.

The Network File-System (NFS) is updated with a security improvement by introducing AES-SHA2-based encryption support on both the client and server sides besides making it more memory-safe. The F2FS receives atomic write support, while the BFQ I/O scheduler is patched to better support hard drives' multiple actuators, enhancing overall performance.

KVM has received several enhancements such as bug fixes, Microsoft Hyper-V support, virtual cache topology for guests on ARM architecture, and others. Nested hypervisor support on Microsoft Hyper-V is now accessible in Linux kernel 6.3. Intel's Trusted Domain Extensions support is also updated to prevent virtualization exceptions for better security.

With this new kernel, the Dell Data Vault driver receives HWMON integration, Asus motherboards with AMD 600 series chipset obtain sensor support, and Intel's VPU accelerators are supported. The reverse-engineered graphics driver for VeriSilicon Vivante GPU IP, Etnaviv, supports VeriSilicon NPUs as well. However, some drivers such as ATI Rage 128, 3dfx, VIA, and others have been removed from the kernel due to their outdated nature. The Intel ICC compiler support is being dropped because developers are not interested in maintaining it.

Improved Hardware Support: Kernel 6.3 now supports the latest AMD and Intel processors, ensuring better performance and compatability. This means your systems will run smoother than ever!

Enhanced Security Features: With new security patches and updates, the kernel provides robust protection against vulnerabilites. It's like having a digital bodyguard for your system!

Filesystem Improvements: Ext4 and Btrfs have received significant updates, improving stability and performance. You'll notice faster file access and better data integrity, which is a win-win for everyone.

Networking Enhancements: The latest kernel includes optimizations for network throughput, reducing latency and improving overall network performance. Your data packets will zip through the internet highway like never before!

Power Management: Energy efficiency has been a focus, with updates to power management that prolong battery life on laptops and reduce energy consumption on servers. Save the planet, one watt at a time!

Virtualization Updates: Kernel 6.3 brings better support for virtual machines, with improved performance and resource allocation. It's like giving your VMs a turbo boost!

Driver Updates: New and updated drivers for various hardware components ensure that your devices are always running at peak performance. No more hunting down obscure drivers!

Improved Scheduling: The kernel's scheduler has been tweaked to provide more efficient CPU usage, leading to better multitasking and responsiveness. Your apps will run as smooth as butter!

Support for New Technologies: With support for emerging technologies like RISC-V and ARM architectures, the kernel is ready for the future. It's all about staying ahead of the curve!

Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements: Countless bug fixes and stability enhancements make this version more reliable than ever. Because nobody likes a crashy system, right?

Graphics Enhancements: Better support for the latest GPUs means smoother graphics and improved rendering. Gamers and graphic designers rejoice!

Memory Management: Updates in memory management lead to more efficient RAM usage, reducing the risk of memory leaks and crashes. Keep your systems running like a well-oiled machine!

Kernel Lockdown: A new feature that provides additional security by restricting certain kernel functionalities, making it harder for malicious actors to exploit the system.

User Experience Improvements: With all these updates, the overall user experience is more seamless and intuitive. It's like upgrading from a bicycle to a sports car!

Linux kernel version 6.3 is packed with features that make it a must-have for any tech enthusiast.