Luis Chamberlain sent out the modules changes today for the Linux 6.6 merge window. Most notable with the modules update is a change that better builds up the defenses against NVIDIA’s proprietary kernel driver from using GPL-only symbols. Or in other words, bits that only true open-source drivers should be utilizing and not proprietary kernel drivers like NVIDIA’s default Linux driver in respecting the original kernel code author’s intent.

Back in 2020 when the original defense was added, NVIDIA recommended avoiding the Linux 5.9 for the time being. They ended up having a supported driver several weeks later. It will be interesting to see this time how long Linux 6.6+ thwarts their kernel driver.

    • acastcandream@beehaw.org
      1·
      1 year ago

      I would love to avoid being locked in by my vendors. I’ve spent an inordinate amount of time doing that at the software level. Mullvane, FF, I’m on fediverse now and don’t use any mainstream social media, I run a bunch of open source privacy software and security programs, the works. Hardware is just a lot more difficult to break free in. For now, Apple is the least-worst of my real options. And I’m glad that at present there are no issues with the silicon chips on the same playing field as we see with Nvidia.

      Ultimately this computer is my tool for a job. I’d love to go to Linux running on hardware I can trust and control, but I simply can’t. I cannot do my work with it.