Luis Chamberlain sent out the modules changes today for the Linux 6.6 merge window. Most notable with the modules update is a change that better builds up the defenses against NVIDIA’s proprietary kernel driver from using GPL-only symbols. Or in other words, bits that only true open-source drivers should be utilizing and not proprietary kernel drivers like NVIDIA’s default Linux driver in respecting the original kernel code author’s intent.

Back in 2020 when the original defense was added, NVIDIA recommended avoiding the Linux 5.9 for the time being. They ended up having a supported driver several weeks later. It will be interesting to see this time how long Linux 6.6+ thwarts their kernel driver.

  • NocturnalMorning@lemmy.world
    7·
    1 year ago

    I don’t believe that even for a second. Software doesn’t make hardware run faster. It can certainly slow it down. But it doesn’t make it run better.

    • ArbitraryValue@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
      22·
      1 year ago

      Of course software can’t exceed the physical limits of the hardware but reaching the physical limits of the hardware is non-trivial, especially for hardware as complex as a modern GPU.

      • NocturnalMorning@lemmy.world
        31·
        1 year ago

        Not really that difficult to use 100% of GPU resources. I’m developing a game right now. It’s not well optimized and uses 100% of GPU resources depending on what I’m doing in the game.

        • ArbitraryValue@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
          11·
          1 year ago

          Reaching 100% utilization is simple and entirely under the control of the user. Optimized drivers are for giving that user more computation at 100% utilization.