I'm trying to wrap my head around the differences between rolling release and fixed release operating systems. For instance, fixed releases like Mint do receive regular updates for certain components, so when we say a distro is a rolling release, does that refer mainly to the OS version itself, or do all the components update continuously? Additionally, do fixed release systems still get driver and kernel updates regularly, or are they only available with a new version of the OS?
I heard that Kernel 6.19 is supposed to be available soon. If I want that update, would I need to switch to a rolling release distro like Arch, or can I get it through the update manager in Mint? Also, for immutable distros like Bazzite, will they not see Kernel 6.19 until their next OS release cycle? Given that this kernel has improvements for some AMD GPUs, it would be disappointing if Bazzite users couldn't use it right away. Are drivers updated for current users without needing to upgrade to Kernel 6.19?
3 Answers
Fixed releases have a defined update policy: they might get minor updates but big changes like new software versions typically wait for the next major release. For example, Ubuntu and Mint do receive updates, but these are mostly limited to important bugs or security fixes, and new kernels for certain periods during an LTS release.
With that said, if Canonical decides to promote Kernel 6.19 as an HWE kernel for Ubuntu 24.04, then Mint could get it too since it pulls from Ubuntu’s kernels. The larger point is that while fixed releases will catch up eventually, rolling ones will always be ahead in terms of the latest features.
In terms of your question about Bazzite, it's essential to understand that while it is based on Fedora, it generally follows the same stable release principles. So new kernels might not be included immediately but will arrive eventually. It's true that the kernel is treated somewhat differently because it's vital for supporting new hardware.
You might have to consider a rolling release if having the latest kernel is important to you; otherwise, you'll be waiting for those major updates with a fixed release.
The distinction between fixed and rolling releases is pretty significant. With a fixed release, you get a snapshot at a certain point in time, and after that, only minor fixes and security updates can be applied. For instance, when a new version is released for a fixed system, usually you'd wait for the next version to get feature updates and new software versions.
On the other hand, rolling releases constantly receive updates. So, if you keep your system updated, you're always close to the latest version of each application and the OS itself. Take Arch for example; there's no numbered versioning, just an ongoing flow of the latest software.
As for kernels, Fedora and related systems like Bazzite generally include new kernels in their updates, but they might take a bit longer compared to rolling distros like Arch. You'll usually see the newer kernels on those rolling releases first.
Related Questions
Biggest Problem With Suno AI Audio
Ethernet Signal Loss Calculator
Sports Team Randomizer
10 Uses For An Old Smartphone
Midjourney Launches An Exciting New Feature for Their Image AI
ShortlyAI Review