As bug fixes from the mainline kernel tree are backported and periodically made available through it, usually on a weekly basis to ensure the smooth running of the Linux system.Īs the name of this Kenrel suggests, it is supported for the Long-Term by backporting the important bug fixes to the older version of the mainline release. So, keep your Linux system up-to-date by installing a Stable kernel.
LINUX KERNEL VERSIONS INSTALL
Hence, Stable Kernel provides users a safe option of Kernel to install on their production systems and to access some new technology or features before officially becoming available in their favorite Linux distro (like Ubuntu). As compared to Mainline, it includes bug fixes, security updates, features from previous versions, and new additions which are deemed stable enough for general use by many users. This book is based on the 2.6 stable kernel series.The Stable kernel refers to versions of the Linux kernel that has undergone vigorous testing and patching. Only time will tell, but so far, the results look good.
LINUX KERNEL VERSIONS SERIES
The kernel developers believe that this process can continue in such a way that the 2.6 kernel series both remains stable and receives new features. Additionally, perhaps most importantly, the current 2.6 maintainer system that exists between Linus Torvalds and Andrew Morton is working out exceedingly well. The decision was made because the 2.6 kernel is well received, it is generally stable, and no large intrusive features are on the horizon.
In the summer of 2004, however, at the annual invite-only Linux Kernel Developers Summit, a decision was made to prolong the development of the 2.6 kernel without introducing a 2.7 development series in the near future. Indeed, historically the process has proceeded exactly as described. Technically speaking, the previous description of the kernel development process is true. For example, the development series 1.3 stabilized into 2.0 and 2.5 stabilized into 2.6. Shortly thereafter (one hopes), the kernel is released as the first version of a new stable series. When that occurs, only bug fixes are accepted.
LINUX KERNEL VERSIONS CODE
After the kernel is considered nearly stabilized, a code freeze is put into effect. Work on existing features, however, can continue. At that point, no new features can be submitted. Over time, the kernel matures and eventually a feature freeze is declared. Initially, the kernel developers work on new features and chaos ensues. Kernel version naming convention.ĭevelopment kernels have a series of phases. The first two values also describe the "kernel series"in this case, the 2.6 kernel series.įigure 1.2. This kernel has a major version of two, has a minor version of six, and is revision zero. Thus, for example, the kernel version 2.6.0 designates a stable kernel. The minor release also determines whether the kernel is a stable or development kernel an even number is stable, whereas an odd number is development. The first value is the major release, the second is the minor release, and the third is the revision. Three numbers, each separated by a dot, represent Linux kernels.
Linux kernels distinguish between stable and development kernels with a simple naming scheme (see Figure 1.2). As developers experiment with new solutions, often-drastic changes to the kernel are made. Development kernels, on the other hand, undergo rapid change where (almost) anything goes. New stable kernel versions are released typically only to provide bug fixes or new drivers. Stable kernels are production-level releases suitable for widespread deployment. Linux kernels come in two flavors: stable or development.
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