The MX Linux team has released version 25.1 of its Debian-based distribution, restoring dual-init support for systemd and SysVinit on a single ISO. This point update, based on Debian 13.3, includes the Linux 6.12 LTS kernel for standard editions and 6.18 LTS for advanced hardware support. Users can now choose their preferred init system from the live boot menu.
MX Linux 25.1, dubbed "Infinity," arrived on January 19, 2026, as the first update to the MX Linux 25 series, which launched two months earlier. This Debian-based distribution, available in Xfce, KDE Plasma, and Fluxbox flavors, builds on Debian 13.3 "Trixie" and incorporates the latest updates from MX repositories.
A key highlight is the return of dual-init support, a longstanding feature of the project. Unlike the initial MX Linux 25 release, which required separate ISOs for systemd and SysVinit, the 25.1 ISOs include both init systems. Users select their preference directly from the live boot menu, with the installer setting the chosen system as default and the alternative accessible via the GRUB advanced menu.
Standard editions ship with the Linux 6.12 LTS kernel, while Advanced Hardware Support (AHS) versions use the 6.18 Liquorix kernel, paired with Mesa 25.3.3 for improved graphics compatibility. The update resolves previous issues, such as polkit and D-Bus problems during login and logout cycles when using systemd-shim. Developers note that systemd is now handled through Debian's security updates, easing maintenance for the MX team.
However, not all configurations support dual init fully. Snapshot ISOs lack the dual-init boot menu, defaulting to the installed system's init. A known issue affects live USB systems with semi-automatic persistence under dual init: the shutdown console may not accept keyboard input, leading to automatic persistence saving. Traditional installs and static persistence modes remain unaffected.
Existing MX Linux 25 users will not receive dual-init via updates; their systems retain the original init through the series' lifetime until August 2028. Those wishing to switch must perform a fresh installation. Downloads are available for all editions from the official announcement page.
