The Linux kernel version 6.19 introduces support for module parameters in Rust-based drivers. This enhancement allows developers to pass runtime options to these drivers more flexibly. The update comes from ongoing efforts to integrate Rust into the Linux ecosystem.
Developers working on Rust drivers for the Linux kernel have gained a new capability with the upcoming Linux 6.19 release. According to Phoronix, these drivers will now support module parameters, enabling users to configure them at load time similar to traditional C-based kernel modules.
This feature addresses a previous limitation in Rust's integration with the kernel, where passing parameters was not straightforward. By adding this support, the kernel maintainers aim to make Rust a more viable option for writing safe and performant drivers. The change is part of broader initiatives to incorporate Rust into Linux, started in recent years to improve memory safety and reduce bugs.
Phoronix highlights that this update will benefit hardware drivers written in Rust, such as those for graphics or networking. While specific drivers weren't detailed in the report, the addition aligns with the kernel's modular design principles. Linux 6.19 is expected to merge this functionality soon, with the full release slated for later in the year.
This development underscores the growing adoption of Rust in open-source projects, particularly in systems programming where reliability is paramount.