Meta is using the Linux scheduler designed for Valve's Steam Deck on its servers (phoronix.com)

Article summary

Meta is using the Linux scheduler designed for Valve's Steam Deck on its servers. The scheduler, which was developed by Linux consulting firm Igalia under contract for Valve, has been found to be effective for Meta's servers. This is an example of the benefits of open source software, where a solution developed for one purpose can be adapted and used by others. The use of this scheduler is a result of the collaborative and open nature of the Linux ecosystem.

Main themes

• Linux scheduler
• Open source software
• Valve's Steam Deck
• Meta's servers
• Collaborative development
• Linux ecosystem

What commenters say

• The use of the Linux scheduler developed for Valve's Steam Deck on Meta's servers is an example of the benefits of open source software.
• The scheduler's effectiveness for Meta's servers is surprising, given its original purpose was for a handheld gaming console.
• Some argue that Valve's contribution to the Linux ecosystem is not unique and that other companies, such as Meta, also contribute to and benefit from open source software.
• Others point out that the use of contractors, such as Igalia, is a common practice in the tech industry, and that it allows companies to access specialized expertise without having to hire full-time employees.
• There is a debate about the size of Valve, with some arguing that 300 employees is extremely small for a company of its revenue and impact, while others argue that it is not small compared to other companies.
• The discussion also touches on the topic of access to source code, with some arguing that Red Hat's approach to providing source code is not in line with the GPL, while others point out that the source code is available through other means, such as CentOS Stream.
• Some commenters note that the use of open source software can lead to a blurring of lines between different companies' contributions, and that it is not always clear who should be credited with a particular development.
• Others argue that the collaborative nature of open source software development is a key factor in its success, and that it allows companies to work together to achieve common goals.