The new release introduces several notable enhancements. It features a Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel version 6.12 with real-time PREEMPT_RT capabilities, catering to high-performance computing needs. This optimized kernel is particularly beneficial for applications that require rapid responsiveness.
In terms of desktop environments, Devuan 6.0 defaults to Xfce 4.20 on its live desktop image, while still offering users the flexibility to choose from other environments such as KDE Plasma, MATE, Cinnamon, LXQt, and LXDE. This customization ensures that users can select an interface that best suits their preferences.
The package management system has also seen a significant overhaul, with an update to APT 3.0 incorporating a new dependency resolver called Solver3. This tool enhances the management of complex package installations and simplifies the user interface with color-coded messages, thereby improving the overall installation experience.
Additionally, Devuan 6.0 adopts a mandatory merged-/usr layout for all installations. Existing users upgrading from Devuan 5.0.0 Daedalus will need to install the usrmerge package, while new installations will automatically utilize tmpfs for the /tmp directory. This change enhances performance by utilizing RAM for temporary file storage, leading to improved read and write speeds.
In line with current trends in the Linux community, Devuan 6.0 has dropped support for the i386 architecture in its installer ISO, though i386 packages remain accessible in the repositories for users who require them. This shift marks a movement towards supporting predominantly 64-bit architectures, aligning with the growing trend in modern computing.
In summary, Devuan GNU+Linux 6.0 Excalibur presents a compelling option for users seeking a systemd-free environment, featuring significant advancements in its kernel, package management, and desktop offerings. For further information and to download the release, users can visit the official Devuan website.
As Devuan continues to evolve, it is likely to attract users who prioritize system control and flexibility, especially as the Linux community increasingly gravitates towards systemd-based systems. The commitment to user freedom and choice remains a cornerstone of Devuan's philosophy, ensuring that it caters to a niche but dedicated audience in the broader Linux ecosystem
Devuan 6.0.0 Excalibur released
Devuan GNU+Linux 6.0.0 Excalibur has been officially released as an alternative to mainstream Linux distributions that rely on systemd, built upon Debian GNU/Linux 13 (Trixie). This version boasts several significant improvements, including a Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel version 6.12 with real-time PREEMPT_RT features for high-performance computing and a revamped package management system with APT 3.0 and Solver3. Devuan 6.0 also introduces a mandatory merged-/usr layout for all installations, which enhances performance by storing temporary files in RAM instead of on disk. The new release drops support for the i386 architecture in its installer ISO, but i386 packages are still available in the repositories for users who may need them.
