Linux 5.17 release delayed due to Specter V2

As reported, the release of version 5.17 of Linux was scheduled for yesterday. This would be the most recent stable version of the Linux kernel, however, this will be delayed again.

On this occasion, instead of receiving a stable version, a test version (5.17-rc8) was received. In the words of its developer, Linus Torvalds, it will be delayed due to last-minute problems. This problem would be related to the recent appearance of a variant of Specter.

What has happened?

Recently it became known that a new variant of Specter, is a vulnerability that reduces the performance of microprocessors. This has put developers at Intel, AMD, and ARM on alert as they seek to mitigate the issue.

Of course, this is a problem that affects all operating systems, including Linux. That is why Linus Torvalds has decided not to release this update to correct this vulnerability and deliver a secure kernel to users.

So, we have that the update was postponed to release a patch that fixes this issue. So, we must wait at least one more week to be able to install this stable version on our computers.

Through a brief statement, the father of Linux spoke about his decision and the reasons that led him to delay this new version of the Linux kernel.

When could this new version be available?

According to information provided by Linus Torvalds himself, the stable version of Linux may be available for this weekend. That is to say, it is likely that it will arrive next Sunday , March 20, as long as the problem is solved.

In any case, it only remains to wait patiently and trust that the development team will be able to patch the vulnerability these days. This with the aim that version 5.17 of Linux can be available next weekend.