NixOS, a Linux distribution renowned for its flexibility and security, has released its latest update: NixOS 24.11 Vicuña. After a week-long delay, this release introduces significant upgrades, including thousands of new packages, additional modules, and improved compatibility. Here’s a detailed overview.
What is NixOS?
NixOS is a unique Linux distribution that allows users to leverage its package set across other Linux systems and macOS. Known for staying ahead, NixOS continually evolves with new features and modules.
NixOS 24.11 Release Highlights
- Expanded and Secure Packages
- New Packages: A total of 8,141 new packages have been added, offering more choices for users.
- Updated Packages: 20,975 packages have been updated for improved compatibility and features.
- Removed Packages: To maintain stability, 3,970 packages have been removed.
- New Modules and Options
NixOS 24.11 introduces 119 new modules and removes 30 outdated ones. Additionally, 1,706 new options have been added, while 556 were removed to streamline configuration. - Strong Community Support
This release was made possible by the contributions of 2,669 contributors, who made 49,079 commits since the previous release. - Desktop Environment Updates
- GNOME 47 “Denver”: This latest version introduces accent colors, small screen support, and hardware encoding for screen captures.
- Plasma 6.2: Enhanced with numerous bug fixes and performance improvements.
- Improved Darwin Support
Support for Darwin systems has been revamped, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the core team. Detailed changes can be found on the NixOS Discourse. - Latest C Compilers
- LLVM 19: The latest version improves performance for developers using multiple LLVM versions.
- GCC: While unchanged, its stability remains reliable.
How to Upgrade to NixOS 24.11
For users looking to upgrade their system:
- Back Up Your Data: Always ensure you back up your data before upgrading.
- Follow the Release Manual: A comprehensive release manual is available on the official NixOS website.
- Download the Latest ISO: The NixOS 24.11 ISO image can be downloaded from official links.
Long-Term Support and Security
The NixOS 24.11 release will receive security updates and bug fixes until June 30, 2025. This long-term support ensures a secure and stable user experience.
Conclusion
NixOS 24.11 Vicuña is a monumental update, featuring more packages, modules, and fixes designed to enhance user experience. From GNOME to Plasma, along with Darwin improvements and compilers, this release showcases NixOS’s commitment to continuous growth. Don’t miss out on exploring its latest features!
