The Alpine Linux team has announced the release of version 3.21.0, the first in the new stable v3.21 series. Known for its lightweight design and focus on security, Alpine Linux continues to solidify its position as a favorite choice for routers, firewalls, VPNs, VoIP, containers, and servers. This latest release brings significant updates and the much-anticipated initial support for the loongarch64 architecture.
Key Highlights
Alpine Linux 3.21.0 includes major enhancements to its core and essential packages, improving performance and compatibility. Key updates in this release include:
- Linux Kernel 6.12: Enhances the operating system’s security and stability.
- Updated Compilers: Features GCC 14 and LLVM 19, supporting the latest development tools.
- Support for Modern Technologies: Node.js (LTS) 22.11, Rust 1.83, Crystal 1.14, and Go 1.23.
- Desktop Environments and Graphic Libraries: GNOME 47, KDE Plasma 6.2, LXQt 2.1, and Qt 6.8.
- PHP 8.4: Ideal for modern web environments.
- Sway 1.10 and .NET 9.0: Offer advanced tools for users and developers.
loongarch64 Support
One of the most notable features of this release is the initial support for the loongarch64 architecture, an emerging technology that promises to improve performance for specific applications and expand Alpine Linux’s user base.
Significant Changes
- ZSTD Compression for linux-firmware: Firmware files are now compressed using ZSTD, reducing file sizes and optimizing performance. Users who compile their own kernels must include the
CONFIG_FW_LOADER_COMPRESS_ZSTD=yoption in the kernel configuration. - Automatic Restart for OpenSSH: During upgrades, the OpenSSH service will automatically restart to accept new connections, ensuring a seamless transition.
- Precautions for Separate Filesystems: Users with
/and/usron separate filesystems—a setup not recommended—must follow specific guidelines provided in the official Alpine Linux wiki.
Upgrade Notes
To upgrade to this new version, the Alpine Linux team recommends running the apk upgrade --available command, ensuring a smooth transition between major versions.
Community Contributions and Acknowledgments
The development of Alpine Linux 3.21.0 was made possible by an active community that submits patches, reports bugs, updates packages, and contributes to documentation. Additionally, companies like GIGABYTE, Linode, Fastly, IBM, Equinix Metal, and vpsFree provided essential hardware and hosting support.
Availability and Downloads
Alpine Linux 3.21.0 is now available for download in two main versions:
- Standard: Designed for users seeking a basic and lightweight system. Size: 240 MB.
- Extended: Includes additional tools for a more comprehensive setup. Size: 953 MB.
Both versions can be downloaded from the official Alpine Linux website, where a complete list of changes and improvements is also available.
A Firm Step into the Future
With this release, Alpine Linux reaffirms its commitment to delivering a lightweight, secure operating system tailored to current and future needs. The adoption of modern technologies and support for new architectures ensures its relevance in a constantly evolving tech landscape.
More información: Alpine LInux
