The third release candidate for Qubes OS 4.3.0 has been announced, showcasing a range of new features and enhancements compared to its predecessor, Qubes OS 4.2. Key upgrades include an upgraded Dom0 based on Fedora 41, an updated Xen to version 4.19, and revised templates with Fedora 42 and Debian 13. One of the most notable innovations is the introduction of the New Devices API, which offers a "self-identity-oriented" approach to device management, allowing users to easily handle their devices through a dedicated Device Assignments page.
Further improvements in Qubes OS 4.3 involve the reintroduction of Qubes Windows Tools (QWT), which now provides enhanced functionality for users operating within Windows environments. User experience enhancements include a new Device UX workflow, a redesigned Qubes Devices widget, and overall improvements in graphical user interface elements, such as flat icons and a centralized notification system.
Performance enhancements are also notable, with optimizations such as direct volume usage, reduced reliance on snapshots, and improved RAM efficiency through a streamlined number of state qubes. Security features have been bolstered with specific template settings, GRUB2 updates for security, and enhanced support for SSL certificates and GPG keys. Anonymity is strengthened by prohibiting certain actions from Whonix-Workstation qubes in non-Whonix disposables and restricting network settings.
In addition to these advancements, Qubes OS 4.3.0 incorporates features like Ansible support, Qubes Air, and initial steps towards supporting Wayland sessions in GUIVM. Users can now add free-form text to their qubes and enjoy automatic cleanup of the QubesIncoming directory. However, some features, such as the default screen locker and Windows 7 support in QWT, have been dropped or replaced.
Overall, Qubes OS 4.3.0-rc3 represents a significant step forward in usability, performance, and security for users seeking a robust and flexible operating system. The release candidate is now available for testing, inviting users to explore its new capabilities and provide feedback.
As Qubes OS continues to evolve, future updates are likely to focus on further enhancing device management, increasing usability for both casual and power users, and maintaining stringent security standards. The community's input during the testing phase will be invaluable in shaping the final release, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its user base
Further improvements in Qubes OS 4.3 involve the reintroduction of Qubes Windows Tools (QWT), which now provides enhanced functionality for users operating within Windows environments. User experience enhancements include a new Device UX workflow, a redesigned Qubes Devices widget, and overall improvements in graphical user interface elements, such as flat icons and a centralized notification system.
Performance enhancements are also notable, with optimizations such as direct volume usage, reduced reliance on snapshots, and improved RAM efficiency through a streamlined number of state qubes. Security features have been bolstered with specific template settings, GRUB2 updates for security, and enhanced support for SSL certificates and GPG keys. Anonymity is strengthened by prohibiting certain actions from Whonix-Workstation qubes in non-Whonix disposables and restricting network settings.
In addition to these advancements, Qubes OS 4.3.0 incorporates features like Ansible support, Qubes Air, and initial steps towards supporting Wayland sessions in GUIVM. Users can now add free-form text to their qubes and enjoy automatic cleanup of the QubesIncoming directory. However, some features, such as the default screen locker and Windows 7 support in QWT, have been dropped or replaced.
Overall, Qubes OS 4.3.0-rc3 represents a significant step forward in usability, performance, and security for users seeking a robust and flexible operating system. The release candidate is now available for testing, inviting users to explore its new capabilities and provide feedback.
As Qubes OS continues to evolve, future updates are likely to focus on further enhancing device management, increasing usability for both casual and power users, and maintaining stringent security standards. The community's input during the testing phase will be invaluable in shaping the final release, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its user base
Qubes OS 4.3.0-rc3 released
The third release candidate for Qubes OS 4.3.0 has been released for testing and offers numerous new features and enhancements over its predecessor, Qubes OS 4.2. Key improvements include an upgraded Dom0 to Fedora 41, Xen boosted to version 4.19, and the introduction of a "self-identity-oriented" assignment of devices known as the New Devices API. Additionally, Qubes OS 4.3 includes security features such as special settings for templates, improved support for SSL client certificates and GPG keys, and enhanced anonymity through Whonix-Workstation qubes.
