Kernel 3.18 Released ! :
Linux 3.18 has been released on Sun, 7 Dec 2014.
Summary: This release adds support for overlayfs, which allows to combine two filesystem in a single mount point; support for mapping user space memory into the GPU on Radeon devices, a bpf() syscall that allows to upload BPF-like programs that can be attached to events; a TCP congestion algorithm optimized for data centers; the Geneve virtualization encapsulation, support for embedding IP protocols over UDP, improved networking performance thanks to batching the processing of socket buffers, and optional multi-queue SCSI support. There are also new drivers and many other small improvements.
Prominent features :
- Nouveau (free Nvidia GPU driver) now supports basic DisplayPort audio
- Support for the Razer Sabertooth gamepad, maps it as Xbox 360 controller
- Xilinx USB2 peripherals
- Touchscreen support for Microchip AR1021 i2c, PenMount 6000 touch
- Audio codecs: Cirrus Logic CS35L32, Everest ES8328and Freescale ES8328
- Audio support: Generic Freescale sound cards, Analog Devices SSM4567 audio amplifier
- Various filesystem improvements, including Btrfs and F2FS
- DCTCP congestion control algorithm now supported
- JIT compilation of eBPF programs on 64-bit builds
- “Tinification” patches to help developers compile leaner, smaller kernels
Upgrade to Kernel 3.18.1-1 stable version :
Although classed as stable and bringing numerous new changes to the table, don’t feel in a rush to try and upgrade your own OS to it anytime soon. Unless you’re adept at handling the sort of monitor-smashing, CPU-charring, rage-inducing issues that arise from swapping out the engine in your OS motor, you shouldn’t.
If you insist, you’ll find source packages available at the kernel.org website :
