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HN · KernelCurated

Linux 5.6 brings WireGuard, USB4 and Y2038 work

Summary

Michael Larabel summarises the most important new features of Linux 5.6, including WireGuard, initial USB4 support and further 32-bit time fixes. Linux 5.6 was released in March 2020. WireGuard was one of the best-known new features.

Ideas

  • WireGuard enters the main kernel as a VPN module.
  • Initial USB4 support builds on Intel's Thunderbolt code.
  • MPTCP can spread connections across several network paths.
  • Y2038 changes extend time representations for 32-bit systems.

Insights

  • Kernel releases combine visible features with long-term infrastructure maintenance.
  • Mainline drivers shorten security and maintenance paths.
  • Release overviews have to weigh benefits against hardware and distribution risks.

Facts

  • USB4 support was still at an early stage.

Recommendations

  • Test new kernels first with a fallback version available.
  • Assess new features by your own hardware and workloads.

References

Read the original article

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