Untitled Linux Show 214: Multiple Kernels for the Price of One – Detailed Summary

In the 214th episode of the Untitled Linux Show, hosts Jonathan Bennett and Jeff Massey delve into a myriad of topics crucial to the Linux community. From groundbreaking hardware releases to pivotal kernel updates and the evolving landscape of Linux gaming, the episode offers an insightful exploration of the current state and future directions of Linux. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key discussions, complete with notable quotes and timestamps.

1. Introduction

Jonathan Bennett sets the stage by outlining the episode's primary topics, including the new AMD Threadripper hardware, potential removal of bcache FS from the kernel, the maturation of Network Manager 1.54, and the nearing milestone of a 3% Linux desktop usage as reported by the Steam survey.

Jonathan Bennett [00:00]: "This week we talk about the new Threadripper hardware and its many, many cores, bcache FS might get removed from the kernel. We're still watching that one. Wayland's not ready yet, but Network Manager 1.54 is. With some really cool new features around IPv4 forwarding and more, the Steam survey almost hits 3%."

2. New AMD Threadripper CPUs: Power and Performance

Jeff Massey kicks off the technical deep dive by reviewing AMD's latest 9000 series Threadripper CPUs, highlighting models like the 9960X with 24 cores and the formidable 9980X boasting 64 cores. The discussion emphasizes the significant generational performance uplift, especially in multi-core scenarios, while also addressing the trade-offs in single-core performance and increased power consumption.

Jeff Massey [03:38]: "The 9980X came out on top and it showed a 30% improvement over the 7980X... That's roughly a 30% improvement in a generation. So that's pretty decent."

Jonathan concurs, noting the substantial power requirements and the necessity for dedicated power supplies when opting for these high-end CPUs.

Jonathan Bennett [12:00]: "So you're probably going to need a dedicated power supply just for that."

3. Network Manager 1.54: Enhanced Networking Features

The hosts explore the latest release of Network Manager, version 1.54, which introduces several valuable features. Notably, the addition of IPv4 forwarding settings per device allows for more granular network configurations, benefiting users who set up VPNs.

Jeff Massey [16:00]: "You can now do it in Network Manager and you can do it per device rather than turning it on globally as a kernel setting."

Other enhancements include improvements in IPv6 prefix delegation, Wireguard integration, and streamlined connection property modifications without needing to restart connections—a boon for remote management via SSH.

4. Kernel News: Bcache FS and Upcoming Releases

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to kernel developments. The discussion centers on the potential removal of the bcache filesystem from the Linux kernel, a contentious issue between Linus Torvalds and maintainer Kent Overstreet. While Overstreet signals the removal of the experimental label in the upcoming 6.18 kernel, uncertainties remain regarding its stability and future.

Jeff Massey [18:48]: "The experimental label is coming off in the 6.18 kernel. Now that would mean the file system would be stable for this year's long-term support release possibly."

Additionally, the hosts touch upon the recent 6.16 kernel release, highlighting new features such as enhanced support for NVIDIA's nouveau driver, OpenVPN Data Channel Offloading (DCO), and improvements in FireWire support, ensuring continued compatibility with legacy hardware.

5. Linux Gaming Growth: Insights from the Steam Survey

Jonathan presents the latest Steam survey results, revealing that Linux desktop usage among gamers has surged to 2.89%, inching closer to the coveted 3% mark. The distribution breakdown showcases Fedora's strong presence alongside Arch Linux and Ubuntu. CPU preferences among Linux gamers also shift slightly, with Intel gaining ground marginally over AMD.

Jonathan Bennett [24:24]: "The July Steam survey shows we're up to 2.89%, almost hitting that 3% mark, which is fun."

This growth underscores the increasing viability of Linux as a gaming platform, bolstered by tools like Proton that bridge compatibility gaps with Windows-exclusive titles.

6. X11 vs. Wayland: User Challenges in Transition

Jeff Massey discusses a poll conducted by Brody Robertson, which investigates why users remain on the X11 display server despite the industry's push towards Wayland. Key reasons include:

• Desktop Environment Support: Some environments like XFCE or Cinnamon have limited or experimental Wayland support.

  Jeff Massey [31:00]: "Cinnamon, because it was called out. Somebody said, well, Cinnamon supports it, but it's not very good."

• Software Compatibility: Niche applications essential for certain users, especially in corporate settings, lack Wayland support.

  Jeff Massey [32:13]: "Now, think, think niche type programs and not mainstream ones which have known replacements."

• Hardware Limitations: Older hardware, particularly certain GPU drivers, do not fully support Wayland, hindering user adoption.

  Jeff Massey [34:00]: "Old laptops are in this issue with Wayland which again fall into the old non-supported drivers."

The conversation also touches on challenges like multi-monitor gaming and global hotkey configurations under Wayland, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to resolve these issues.

7. KDE 6.5 Updates: Day/Night Themes and More

The latest updates from the KDE community introduce automatic day/night theme switching based on sunset times, enhancing user experience by adapting the interface's appearance according to the time of day.

Jonathan Bennett [70:00]: "The day/night theme switching... you can now do that in KDE 6.5."

Other notable enhancements include the ability to drag items directly to panels, improved screen reader notifications, and progress indicators in recovery processes. These updates reflect KDE's commitment to usability and accessibility.

8. Command Line Tool Spotlight: Open Snitch

Jeff highlights "Open Snitch," a Linux port of the macOS tool Little Snitch. This application serves as a firewall that monitors and controls outgoing network requests from applications, providing users with granular control over their system's network activity.

Jeff Massey [73:09]: "This week's command line tip is Open Snitch... it's a firewall which reports back network requests from applications."

Open Snitch empowers users to detect unusual or unauthorized network behavior, enhancing system security by allowing or denying specific network connections based on predefined rules.

9. Concluding Remarks and Community Updates

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts share personal anecdotes, including meeting friends and leveraging command-line tools like QEMU's image converter for practical tasks such as backing up and converting disk images. They also promote their respective platforms, encouraging listeners to engage with additional content and support the show through Club TWiT for an ad-free experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Jeff Massey [03:38]: "The 9980X came out on top and it showed a 30% improvement over the 7980X... That's roughly a 30% improvement in a generation."

• Jonathan Bennett [12:00]: "So you're probably going to need a dedicated power supply just for that."

• Jeff Massey [24:32]: "You want boring. Very boring."

Conclusion

Episode 214 of the Untitled Linux Show offers a rich exploration of current developments in the Linux ecosystem. From high-performance AMD CPUs and essential network management tools to the nuanced challenges of transitioning to Wayland and the burgeoning growth of Linux gaming, Jonathan Bennett and Jeff Massey provide listeners with valuable insights and actionable information. Whether you're a seasoned Linux enthusiast or a newcomer navigating the landscape, this episode delivers comprehensive coverage of the most pressing topics in the Linux world.