Linux Kernel 6.18 Becomes LTS: What This Means for Users and Developers

Big news for the Linux community: Linux kernel 6.18 has been designated as a Long Term Support (LTS) release. This kernel will receive security updates and bug fixes until December 2027, making it an important choice for servers, embedded systems, and users who prefer stability over bleeding-edge features.

What is an LTS Kernel?

Long Term Support kernels receive maintenance updates for an extended period, typically 2-6 years. This is crucial for:

• Enterprise servers – Stability and security are paramount
• Embedded devices – IoT devices, routers, industrial systems
• Production environments – Minimizing disruption from kernel updates
• Android devices – Many phones use LTS kernels

Key Features in Linux Kernel 6.18

Rust in the Kernel – Officially a Success

At the 2025 Maintainers Summit, the kernel community officially declared the Rust experiment a success. This means:

• More kernel drivers can be written in Rust
• Better memory safety for critical components
• Reduced vulnerabilities from memory bugs
• More developers can contribute safely

AI/ML Tools in Kernel Development

The kernel community has embraced machine learning tools for development:

• AI-assisted code review
• Automated bug detection
• Performance optimization suggestions
• Documentation generation

Hardware Support Improvements

• Better AMD GPU support including latest RDNA architecture
• Intel Arc graphics improvements
• New ARM processor support
• Enhanced power management for laptops
• Improved NVMe and storage performance

Security Enhancements

• Improved Spectre/Meltdown mitigations
• Better isolation for containers
• Enhanced audit logging
• New security modules

Linux 5.4 Reaches End of Life

As Linux 6.18 LTS begins, Linux 5.4 has reached end of life. If you are still running 5.4:

• No more security patches will be released
• You should upgrade to a newer LTS kernel
• Consider 6.1 LTS, 6.6 LTS, or now 6.18 LTS

Current LTS Kernels

Which Kernel Should You Use?

For Desktop Users

Most distributions handle kernel updates automatically. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS uses kernel 6.8, while rolling releases like Arch use the latest stable.

For Server Administrators

Stick with your distributions supported kernel. RHEL 9 uses 5.14, Ubuntu Server 24.04 uses 6.8. These are backport-patched for security.

For New Hardware

If you have very new hardware (2024-2025 laptops, latest GPUs), you may need a newer kernel for proper support. Consider using:

# Ubuntu - Install mainline kernel
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:cappelikan/ppa
sudo apt update
sudo apt install mainline

# Fedora - Already ships latest stable kernels

How to Check Your Kernel Version

# Check current kernel
uname -r

# Full system info
uname -a

# Distribution info
cat /etc/os-release

Conclusion

Linux kernel 6.18 LTS is a significant release that will provide a stable foundation for Linux systems through 2027. With Rust officially embraced and AI tools becoming part of development, the kernel continues to evolve while maintaining the stability that enterprises and users depend on.

For most users, your distribution handles kernel updates automatically. Focus on keeping your system updated, and you will benefit from these improvements without any manual intervention.