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Rust support in the Linux kernel (lkml.org)

550 points by SEJeff · 1746 days ago · 418 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses the addition of Rust support in the Linux kernel. The exact content of the article is not available due to a protective measure against bots and scrapers. The discussion on Hacker News focuses on the implications of using Rust in the Linux kernel. The conversation revolves around compile times, language choice, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of using Rust.

Main themes

  • Rust in Linux kernel
  • Compile times
  • Language choice
  • Security
  • Kernel development
  • Industry standards

What commenters say

  • Rust's compile times have improved significantly over the past two years, making it a more viable option for the Linux kernel.
  • The use of Rust in the Linux kernel will have a positive impact on security, outweighing potential drawbacks such as increased compile times.
  • C++ would be a better choice than Rust for the Linux kernel due to its industry standard status and existing use in other kernels.
  • The Linux kernel maintainers' decision to use Rust is a deliberate choice, prioritizing safety and security over other considerations.
  • The industry consensus on programming languages may not be directly applicable to kernel development, which has unique requirements and constraints.
  • Rust's adoption in the Linux kernel may lead to a shift in driver development, with more drivers being rewritten to match Rust's safety levels.
  • The choice of programming language for the Linux kernel is a complex issue, with different opinions on the trade-offs between safety, performance, and development ease.