New code integrated into Linux 6.18 to address Linus Torvalds’ criticism of Rust formatting

Critical Revision of Rust Formatting in Linux 6.18 Led by Linus Torvalds

The recent Linux 6.18 kernel merge window sparked a heated debate around the integration of code written in Rust, particularly regarding code formatting. Linus Torvalds himself expressed marked dissatisfaction with the automatic formatting system rustfmt used by the Rust for Linux development team, calling it “totally inconsistent” and “completely absurd” due to certain practices deemed counterproductive in consolidating imports onto a single line.

This public rejection sparked a real awakening within the Linux community and among Rust maintainers, who quickly responded by proposing patches aimed at aligning the formatting with standards more suited to the kernellifecycle

• . The key issue identified was the excessive grouping of instructions in a single line, generating conflicts during patching or successive rebasing, which unnecessarily complicated contribution management.
• Major incompatibility between the default rustfmt formatting and the Linux kernel’s contribution management processes
• Frequent conflicts during merges and rebases caused by excessively condensed imports in a single line

Rapid response from Rust developers in favor of adjusting the directives included in the documentationThe dynamics of this debate are indicative of the challenges associated with integrating a new language into a historical project such as Linux. Indeed, even if the inclusion of Rust in Linux represents a major advance in security and modernity, it requires a review of coding standards and management practices to align contributions with the rigorous expectations of the Linux maintenance team. Learn how to integrate Rust code into the Linux 6.18 kernel: benefits, integration guide, and best practices to improve the security and performance of your Linux developments.Technical Adaptations to the Rust Coding Standards in Linux 6.18: Focus on rustfmtFaced with explicit criticism from Linus Torvalds, the developers leading the Rust for Linux project have implemented a set of measures aimed at improving code formatting management, including documenting how to work around the limitations of the integrated rustfmt. The stated goal is to make the codebase cleaner, more readable, and, above all, less prone to errors during patch merge phases.

Modification of the default formatting rules imposed by rustfmt

Use of a specific comment to prevent clumping of imports Update of the official documentation to inform about these practices Guarantee of a clean rustfmt codebase to facilitate reviews and merges

This technical choice, even if temporary, illustrates the adaptability required when integrating a modern language into a primitive kernel with high inertia. It also highlights the importance of rigor in

• code formatting
• is crucial to ensuring maintainability and stability in a project as complex and vital as Linux. Upcoming previews, such as the expected 6.18-rc2, will incorporate these adjustments, allowing us to measure their effectiveness in a real-world context.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msOkPRBCJlg
• Impact of Rust Integration on Open Source Development and Contribution Management in Linux

The gradual arrival of Rust within the Linux kernel represents much more than a simple language addition; it is a real evolution in contribution and maintenance practices. This transition requires an adaptation of workflows, validation tools, as well as the coding standards that govern contributions. Rust notably provides better support for memory safety compared to the legacy C language. However, this requires adjustments in the organization of the code base and the way patches are applied. For example: Adapting CI/CD tools to support Rust compilation and associated checks

Revising contribution guides to incorporate the specifics of Rust formatting and code conventions

Rigorous management of conflicts caused by C/Rust coexistence, requiring enhanced collaboration between maintainers This transformation, although still in its early stages, promises to have a positive impact on the overall quality of the Linux kernel. It is part of a modernization process that you can follow in more detail via dedicated technical articles such as those offered by linuxencaja.net

.

• Discover how to integrate Rust code into the Linux 6.18 kernel. A step-by-step guide to facilitate Rust adoption and improve the performance and security of kernel development.
• Concrete example: Conflict management during Rust revisions
• In recent merge cycles, condensing lines in imports caused frequent conflicts, slowing down patch merging. Using an empty comment at the end of a line now allows each import to be kept on its own line, avoiding the automatic appearance of conflicts between contributions.
• This measure facilitates, in particular:

Manual review by Linux maintainers, accustomed to a certain readability Software conflict management during automatic merges via GitA reduction in the workload during daily patch integration

Role and reactions of Linus Torvalds regarding the integration of Rust formatting into the Linux kernel

Linus Torvalds, the historic architect and main maintainer of the Linux kernel, plays a crucial role in the technical guidance and validation of contributions. His intervention on Rust formatting within the kernel is particularly significant, as it reflects a desire to remain faithful to high standards while welcoming innovation.

Linus specifically specified that the Rust language would not be imposed on maintainers who preferred not to work with it. This statement reflects:

• A respectful approach to the different expertise in the Linux community
• Recognition of the challenges associated with the coexistence of multiple languages ​​in the same project
• Importance placed on the quality of contributions over simple technological choices

To delve deeper into the history of these technical debates and their impact on future releases, you can consult the detailed analyses on

linuxencaja.net

which document, among other things, the management of recent contributions and patches.

• Discover how the integration of Rust into the Linux 6.18 codebase brings new features and improves the kernel’s security and performance. A comprehensive analysis of the changes and their impact on the Linux ecosystem.
• Evolutionary Outlook: Towards a More Modern and Maintainable Linux Kernel Integrating Rust
• The successful integration of Rust into the Linux kernel, with adjustments to code formatting and management like those seen in version 6.18, opens new avenues for operating system development. This modernization brings tangible benefits:

Improved security

thanks to Rust’s innate protections against memory errors Reduced bugs related to classic C problems, an asset for long-term reliability

through strict adherence to formatting and coding standards

Strengthening the open source ecosystem

• by attracting a new generation of developers familiar with Rust However, challenges remain in the synchronized management of the two languages ​​and in adapting compilation tools. The kernel will need to continue refining its processes, particularly in terms of documentation, standards, and verification tools. This work is essential to support users of GNU/Linux distributions, who will thus benefit from more robust and efficient systems, as illustrated in the latest version tests available on linuxencaja.net.
• The discussions and fixes observed around Rust code formatting are emblematic of the pragmatic and demanding state of mind that drives the Linux community in the face of technological developments, a balance between tradition and innovation to perpetuate one of the most emblematic open source projects.