MX Linux 23.3 Libretto: Why you should switch from Microsoft Windows 11
MX Linux has released version 23.3 "Libretto," a fresh update to its MX-23 series (download here). For those already running MX-23, there's no need for a complete reinstall, as all updates are available through the regular update channels. This third refresh brings a host of bug fixes, kernel updates, and application enhancements, making it a compelling choice for users considering a switch from Windows 11.
MX-23.3 is based on Debian 12.5 "bookworm," ensuring a stable and reliable foundation. Among the notable updates, the inclusion of the "build-essential" packages stands out. This feature, previously available in MX-23.2, is crucial for users needing to compile drivers without internet access.
fwupd abandons xz compression for zstd amid security concerns
Following the discovery of malicious code, fwupd, the popular firmware update utility, has decided to transition from xz to zstd compression for its metadata. Richard Hughes, the lead developer behind fwupd, outlined the rationale behind this decision in a recent blog post.
For years, fwupd has relied on compressed metadata to facilitate firmware updates for a wide array of hardware. This metadata, essentially a large XML file, was initially compressed using gzip, resulting in a 1.6MB download for end-users. However, in 2021, the fwupd team switched to xz compression, further reducing the file size to 1.1MB and saving significant bandwidth.