The Rocky Linux team has announced the general availability of version 9.5, introducing significant improvements and new features for system administrators and developers. With updated installation images, containers, and cloud environments, this release continues to position Rocky Linux as a robust and reliable alternative to enterprise Linux distributions.
Key Highlights of Rocky Linux 9.5
1. Podman 5.0: Significant Improvements in Container Management
Rocky Linux 9.5 includes the latest version of Podman, 5.0, featuring faster boot times for Podman virtual machines and the new “Podman Farm” functionality for multi-platform image building. This version also introduces a more efficient default networking stack and enhancements to Quadlet, simplifying container service configuration.
2. File Management in Cockpit
Cockpit, the popular web console for remote server management, now includes file management capabilities via the new Cockpit Files plugin. Users can install the cockpit-files package to access this feature, which simplifies remote file handling directly through a web browser.
3. Tools for Web Servers and Programming
This release brings significant updates for developers, including:
- Apache HTTP Server 2.4.62, enhancing compatibility and security for web server management.
- Node.js 22, ideal for dynamic web development.
4. System Tools and Debugging Enhancements
Rocky Linux 9.5 includes an updated GCC 11.5 compiler and Annobin 12.70, alongside performance tools such as:
- GDB 14.2 (debugger).
- Valgrind 3.23.0 (performance analysis).
- SystemTap 5.1.
5. Advanced Performance Monitoring
For robust monitoring needs, this version introduces Performance Co-pilot 6.2.2 and Grafana 10.2.6, offering advanced visualization tools and detailed performance analysis to keep systems running smoothly.
6. Cutting-Edge Compiler Toolsets
Rocky Linux 9.5 includes the latest versions of compilers, such as GCC Toolset 14, LLVM Toolset 18.1.8, Rust Toolset 1.79.0, and Go Toolset 1.22, ensuring developers have access to top-tier tools for their projects.
Cloud Image Creation Changes
Rocky Linux’s SIG/Cloud team has implemented a significant change by building cloud images using OpenSUSE’s KIWI appliance builder and Empanadas, a toolkit developed by the Rocky Linux Release Engineering team.
Upgrade and Migration Process
Upgrading to Rocky Linux 9.5 is straightforward:
- Users of previous Rocky Linux 9 versions can execute the command
sudo dnf -y upgradein the terminal. - Alternatively, the upgrade can be performed using graphical tools like GNOME Software or KDE Discover.
For users of other Enterprise Linux 9-based distributions, the migrate2rocky utility provides an easy solution to migrate to Rocky Linux 9.5.
Note: There is no official upgrade path from Rocky Linux 8 to 9.5. In such cases, a clean installation is recommended.
Acknowledging the Community
This release is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Rocky Linux volunteers and project leaders, who worked diligently on compiling, testing, and documenting this version. Special recognition goes to contributors and the broader Fedora Linux and CentOS Stream communities, whose work underpins enterprise Linux distributions.
Thorough Testing for Maximum Stability
Rocky Linux 9.5 underwent extensive manual and automated testing across various environments, ensuring accuracy and stability. Those interested in participating in future testing efforts can join the ~Testing channel on Rocky Linux Mattermost.
With this update, Rocky Linux reaffirms its commitment to providing a robust, stable, and open distribution for enterprise environments and advanced users. For more details, users can review the release notes available in the official documentation.
