The Linux Kernel version 6.18.5 has been released, bringing together contributions from various developers to improve reliability and performance. A key fix addresses an old problem related to network file system (NFS) handling credentials during local I/O tasks, which had reintroduced bugs in earlier code changes. Additionally, the kernel team has made significant improvements to scheduling with a new algorithm that balances system loads more efficiently, even if it means a slight performance hit on certain jobs. The release also includes fixes for Multipath TCP (MPTCP) disconnects and other tweaks aimed at maintaining code quality and streamlining processes.

Linux Kernel 6.18.5 released

The latest stable release of the Linux Kernel, version 6.18.5, just landed. It brings together contributions from everyone involved, aiming for reliability and better performance.

One thing tech folks are tracking is a fix for an old problem related to how network file system (NFS) handles credentials during local I/O tasks. The kernel team had reverted some earlier code changes because they brought back bugs with read and write operations in the NFS part. This was an effective move that truly addressed the stability issues.

If you're into the inner workings, big kudos go to the scheduling crew for a significant improvement: this randomized 'proportional newidle balancing' algorithm is shaking things up nicely in certain tests. Its handling system loads better overall. Sure, it means a tiny performance hit on some specific jobs right now, but the trade-off feels worth it as everyone works towards smarter resource use.

This focus isn't just about flashy features either; there's a clear push for maintainability and keeping things snappy. Seeing bits of code streamlined and tidied up across the board shows they're serious about code quality; that’s fundamental to how the Linux kernel keeps evolving.

Elsewhere, a fix is also in place related to Multipath TCP (MPTCP) disconnects. This comes after some looks at upcoming patches suggested potential problems needed sorting out before things got too far ahead. The update ensures proper context reset when connections drop.

Each tweak, whether it's about scheduling, filesystem handling, or MPTCP, highlights the steady effort behind Linux to iron out wrinkles and boost its capabilities in practical ways. It keeps building on a solid base.

Linux kernel 6.18.5 released

Linux kernel version 6.18.5 is now available:

Full source: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.18.5.tar.xz
Patch: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/patch-6.18.5.xz
PGP Signature: https://cdn.kernel.org/pub/linux/kernel/v6.x/linux-6.18.5.tar.sign

You can view the summary of the changes at the following URL:
https://git.kernel.org/stable/ds/v6.18.5/v6.18.4