Intel's Kernel Update Boosts Linux Performance by 3889%
Did Linux Just Get 40x Faster? 🔗
00:00 Video Introduction
Linux has reportedly become significantly faster due to a single line of code change implemented by Intel. A benchmark showed a 3889% performance increase in the Linux kernel, suggesting a potential 40x boost for users without any hardware upgrades.
01:30 Benchmark Testing Details
Intel's automated service, kernel test robot, conducted tests on a server setup with multiple Intel Xeon processors and large memory. This update is expected to enhance server workloads rather than improve gaming performance, which relies more on graphics cards.
03:00 Impact of the Update
The kernel change involves aligning memory allocations to benefit from Transparent Huge Pages (THP), which can enhance performance for specific processes. However, it has also caused performance regressions in some workloads, with one user reporting a 600% drop in performance on a benchmark.
05:00 Bug Reports and Performance Issues
Issues were reported across various systems, including AMD and Intel. For example, the open-source photography application Darktable experienced a 25% performance decrease when processing images with the new kernel.
07:30 Conclusion and Open-Source Benefits
While the performance gains from the update are significant for certain workloads, they may not be noticeable for most users. The open-source nature of Linux allows for detailed bug testing and potential fixes, offering users more control over their systems compared to proprietary alternatives.
What kind of performance increase was reported for the Linux kernel?
A benchmark indicated a 3889% performance increase, suggesting a potential 40x improvement for users.
Which workloads will benefit from the new kernel change?
The update primarily benefits server workloads, particularly those that can utilize Transparent Huge Pages, rather than gaming performance.
Are there any performance issues associated with the kernel update?
Yes, some users have reported significant performance drops in various workloads, including a 600% decrease in benchmarks and a 25% decrease in image processing with Darktable.