VMware Photon OS 4.0 Released with Linux Kernel 5.10 and PREEMPT_RT Patchset
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VMware has recently released Photon OS 4.0, which includes several new features and improvements over the previous version. This release includes a Linux kernel 5.10-based platform with PREEMPT_RT patchset, which provides real-time performance optimizations for demanding workloads. The article discusses the new features and changes in Photon OS 4.0 and provides information on how to download and install it.
New Features and Improvements
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Photon OS 4.0 includes several new features and improvements, including:
### Linux Kernel 5.10
The latest version of Photon OS is based on Linux kernel 5.10, which provides better performance and stability for demanding workloads.
### PREEMPT_RT Patchset
The PREEMPT_RT patchset is included in Photon OS 4.0, which provides real-time performance optimizations for demanding workloads. This patchset includes several improvements, such as:
* Improved scheduling algorithms for better performance and responsiveness
* Enhanced interrupt handling for faster context switching
* Optimized system call handling for reduced latency
### SELinux Support
Photon OS 4.0 now supports SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux) in both Permissive and Enforce modes. This provides better security features and flexibility for users who require strict access controls.
### Container Support
Photon OS 4.0 includes improved support for containers, which allows for easier deployment and management of containerized applications. This includes support for Docker, rkt, and other popular container runtimes.
### Networking Improvements
The latest version of Photon OS includes several networking improvements, such as:
* Improved network stack performance for better throughput and lower latency
* Enhanced routing and firewalling features for better security and control
* Support for new network technologies and protocols, such as IPv6 and VXLAN
### Disk Encryption
Photon OS 4.0 includes improved disk encryption features, which provide better security for data at rest. This includes support for full-disk encryption and other advanced encryption technologies.
### ARM Support
Photon OS 4.0 now supports ARM-based platforms, including the Raspberry Pi 4. This allows users to run Photon OS on a wider range of hardware, including low-power and cost-effective devices.
### GPG Key Management
The latest version of Photon OS includes improved GPG key management features, which provide better security for package updates and other cryptographic operations.
How to Download and Install Photon OS 4.0
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To download and install Photon OS 4.0, follow these steps:
1. Go to the VMware Photon OS download page and select the appropriate version for your hardware architecture (x86_64 or aarch64).
2. Download the ISO file and create a bootable USB drive using a tool such as Rufus.
3. Boot your system from the USB drive and select the “Install Photon OS” option.
4. Follow the installation wizard to complete the installation process.
Conclusion
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Photon OS 4.0 is a significant release that includes several new features and improvements over the previous version. With its Linux kernel 5.10-based platform, PREEMPT_RT patchset, SELinux support, container support, networking improvements, disk encryption, ARM support, and GPG key management features, Photon OS 4.0 provides a powerful and secure platform for demanding workloads. Whether you’re running a data center, a cloud environment, or a local application, Photon OS 4.0 is a great choice for your infrastructure needs.