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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Should I use the Linux-libre kernel or no? (lemmy.world)

submitted 2 days ago by Zeon@lemmy.world to c/linux@lemmy.ml

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Hello, I'm wondering if I should use the Linux-libre kernel or if I should stay with the stock Linux kernel. I do want to remain 100% FOSS and have Libreboot installed, but, does it really matter if I use the stock kernel or not? Can the blobs from the stock kernel be a vulnerbility? My only reason for wanting to stay with the stock kernel is because its better maintained and gets audited more. But I'm really just worried about the blobs, can they do anything?

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[–] fatur0000new@lemmy.ml 2 points 16 hours ago

If your hardware supports linux-libre and you don't consume DRM content (If you don't know. Widevine is the cause), it's better to use that. If not, then you can use Debian/LMDE which can only use the blobs your hardware requires.

My only reason for wanting to stay with the stock kernel is because its better maintained and gets audited more

linux-libre used by Trisquel GNU+Linux which used by FSF. So don't worry.

Can the blobs from the stock kernel be a vulnerbility?

This is not the thing to worry about. Vulnerability is normal because we are human. What is worrying is that blobs are non-libre and you are dependent on the blob developer to care. If the blob developer cares, then great. If not, then you are done. Also, this is a matter of trust. We cannot know what blobs are doing because they are non-libre.