Fwupd, a simple tool that aims to make managing firmware updates on Linux-based systems easier and more automatic, rolled out its new major v2.0. Here’s what’s new!
Key Changes in Fwupd 2.0
The update has streamlined the tool’s efficiency, significantly reducing runtime memory usage and CPU startup costs. In a move towards modernization, Fwupd 2.0 has dropped all legacy signing formats used for verifying metadata and firmware and removed outdated command-line interface tools.
The shift from libgusb and GUdev to libusb and sysfs in plugins is expected to enhance system compatibility and performance.
Additionally, the new version introduces a method to stream firmware binaries over a file descriptor rather than loading them entirely into memory, which should contribute to reduced system overhead during updates.
However, Fwupd 2.0 is not just about enhancements and removals; it also introduces several new features to improve developer interactions and user experiences. A notable addition is the configuration option that allows developers to ignore firmware requirements during development, facilitating testing and deployment processes.
Moreover, the update process has become more transparent and informative for users. The software now flags devices that require a reboot and supports more comprehensive configurations through additional modify-config options.
It is also worth noting that including a privacy policy URL in the remote configuration settings emphasizes the project’s commitment to user privacy.
On the bug-fixing front, Fwupd 2.0 addresses numerous issues to ensure smoother operations. This includes abstracting the D-Bus IPC layer for future compatibility with Android Binder, applying systematic hardening to service files, and enhancing device handling during physical removals.
The update also broadens hardware support, adding compatibility with a diverse range of devices from USB card readers by Algoltek to sophisticated docks from HP and advanced USB hubs from Cable Matters. Particularly noteworthy also is the addition of Darwin support in the build helper.
Fwupd 2.0 is now available for download, and users are encouraged to upgrade to take full advantage of the new features and improvements. For more details on all novelties, visit theย changelog.
