How AI is Forcing Linux to Delete Decades-Old Code

The Linux kernel is continuing its trend of cleaning house. In this video, we discuss the recent decision to remove 18 legacy ISA and PCMCIA Ethernet drivers from the Linux kernel.

While it might seem surprising to strip out hardware support, there is a fascinating modern reason behind it: AI. With more users utilizing AI and fuzzers to find bugs in code from the previous century, Linux maintainers are facing a massive burden trying to patch ancient software that almost no one uses anymore.

We cover the details of this driver purge, how the removal is being handled through 18 separate, reversible patches, and what your options are if you happen to be one of the rare users still relying on this 20-year-old hardware (spoiler: it involves stepping up to maintain it yourself!).

Do you still have any machines running ISA or PCMCIA hardware? Let me know in the comments!
#Linux #LinuxKernel #OpenSource #TechNews #SoftwareEngineering #AI #LegacyTech #linuxnews

Disclaimer:
The opinions, thoughts, and commentary expressed in this video are for educational and discussion purposes only, and do not necessarily reflect my own personal views or the views of any past, present, or future employers/affiliated organizations. All data regarding the Linux kernel updates and driver removals are based on publicly available disclosures and mailing list discussions.

https://lore.kernel.org/lkml/20260421-v7-0-0-net-next-driver-removal-v1-v1-0-69517c689d1f@lunn.ch/

Видео How AI is Forcing Linux to Delete Decades-Old Code канала Gosh-Its-Arch