Product Launchlinux kernelfile systemsvirtualizationsecurity
Linux Kernel Gains Long-Term Support Designation
9.0
Linux has released kernel version 6.18, announced days ago, and designated it long-term support through December 2027. The update delivers performance and hardware compatibility improvements — notably up to 16× faster exFAT operations, Intel CET support in KVM, and BPF program signing — and removes Bcachefs from mainline. Distributions and enterprises can adopt 6.18 for stability, security and broader hardware support.
Key Points
- 1Designates Linux 6.18 as LTS through December 2027, ensuring long-term security and maintenance.
- 2Introduces exFAT speedups up to 16× and kernel BPF signing improving file and runtime security.
- 3Enables enterprise adoption and distro integration, offering stable base for servers, cloud, and embedded systems.
Scoring Rationale
High industry relevance and actionable LTS features, limited novelty compared with prior kernel releases.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
Practice interview problems based on real data
1,625 SQL & Python problems across 15 industry datasets — the exact type of data you work with.
Try 250 free problems
