The progress of the Linux kernel has been remarkable in recent years, especially regarding the performance of servers using AMD EPYC processors. A recent analysis revealed an impressive 37% improvement in performance when moving from Linux 5.15 LTS to Linux 6.17, underscoring the continuous progress in kernel optimization.
Increased Performance on AMD EPYC
According to a report by Phoronix, tests conducted on the AMD EPYC 7773X server have shown significant improvements in kernel performance over the past four years. Since the release of Linux 5.15 LTS in 2021, which coincided with the introduction of the AMD EPYC Milan-X processor, a marked trend in software optimization driving these systems has been observed.
The test results included a series of benchmarks encompassing more than 60 different tests. By calculating the geometric mean of these benchmarks, a considerable progress in the performance of kernel versions is reflected, especially when analyzing the latest versions, such as Linux 6.16 and 6.17 Git, which aim to establish a solid foundation for the upcoming LTS 6.18.
Specific Kernel Improvements
During the tests, it was noted that the latest kernel versions not only improved overall performance but also optimized specific aspects related to hardware management. Among the highlighted improvements are optimizations for newer CPUs, including support for AVX-512 and enhancements in cryptographic capabilities that are particularly beneficial for the architecture of the new AMD EPYC cores.
The performance comparison between Linux 6.17 Git and Linux 6.12 LTS, for example, showed an additional 11% improvement, highlighting the continuous evolution and enhancement of the operating system.
Stable Power Consumption
In addition to the increased performance, a crucial aspect that remained constant was power consumption. Tests conducted with the Linux 5.15 LTS kernel showed an average consumption of 292 watts and a peak of 642 watts for the AMD EPYC 7773X processors. In comparison, with the Linux 6.17 Git kernel, the average consumption slightly rose to 299 watts. This indicates that despite the performance improvements, there has not been a significant increase in energy demand, which is good news for those managing data centers and seeking energy efficiency.
Future Projections
The path toward future developments looks promising. With the imminent release of Linux 6.18, which is shaping up to be a new LTS kernel, developers and server administrators can anticipate more improvements in optimization and performance. Current trends suggest that kernel developments will continue to favor AMD platforms, particularly as even more advanced processor architectures are introduced.
Conclusions
The figures highlight the remarkable evolution of the Linux kernel in the last release cycle, especially for servers using AMD EPYC processors. With a 37% increase in performance in just four years and efficient power consumption management, Linux continues to be a cornerstone for high-performance and efficient environments.
For more information on this and other topics related to hardware and software performance, we invite you to keep exploring more articles on this blog.
