Rocky Linux 9.5 is now available for download! This latest version introduces significant updates, including installation media, containers, cloud, and live images accessible from the Rocky Linux Downloads page. In this article, we’ll explore the new features, key improvements, and upgrade guidance for this release.
What’s New in Rocky Linux 9.5?
Major Updates and Features
Rocky Linux 9.5 comes with several features and enhancements tailored for developers, system administrators, and general users. Here are the highlights:
1. Podman 5.0: Faster and Smarter Container Management
The latest version of Podman 5.0 in Rocky Linux 9.5 offers:
- Faster Podman machine boot times.
- Podman Farm for multi-platform image building.
- Enhanced volume compatibility in podman kube play.
- A more efficient default networking stack.
2. Cockpit Files: Simplified File Management
Cockpit, the web console for remote server management, now includes the Cockpit Files plugin. This feature enables users to manage files directly through a web interface. To use this, install the cockpit-files package.
Updates to Programming Languages, Servers, and Tools
Support for the Latest Languages and Servers
- Apache HTTP Server 2.4.62
- Node.js 22
System Toolchain Enhancements
- GCC 11.5
- Annobin 12.70
Performance and Debugging Tools
- GDB 14.2
- Valgrind 3.23.0
- SystemTap 5.1
Performance Monitoring Tools
- Performance Co-Pilot 6.2.2
- Grafana 10.2.6
Developer-Focused Updates
Rocky Linux 9.5 introduces updated compiler toolsets to support modern application development:
- GCC Toolset 14
- LLVM Toolset 18.1.8
- Rust Toolset 1.79.0
- Go Toolset 1.22
Changes from SIG/Cloud
Cloud images are now built using OpenSUSE’s KIWI appliance builder in conjunction with the Rocky Linux release engineering toolkit, Empanadas.
Thorough Testing for Stability
Every Rocky Linux release undergoes comprehensive testing to ensure stability and accuracy, and 9.5 is no exception. Testing includes both manual and automated processes across a wide range of environments.
If you’d like to participate in testing future releases, join the ~Testing channel on Rocky Linux Mattermost.
Upgrade and Conversion Guide
Upgrading from Rocky Linux 9.x to 9.5
To upgrade via CLI, use the following command:
sudo dnf -y upgradeAlternatively, use graphical tools like GNOME Software or KDE Discover.
Converting from Other Enterprise Linux Distributions
Use the migrate2rocky tool to convert installations from other Enterprise Linux 9-based distributions to Rocky Linux 9.5.
Note: There is no official upgrade path from Rocky Linux 8 to 9. Users wishing to transition from Rocky Linux 8 to 9 are advised to perform a fresh installation.
Known Issues in Rocky Linux 9.5
Anaconda Bugs
In specific environments (e.g., QEMU with virtio-vga), the help buttons in Anaconda may display blank pages. For a complete list of known issues, refer to the Rocky Linux 9.5 Release Notes.
Acknowledgements
This release would not have been possible without the incredible contributions from Rocky Linux volunteers, project leaders, sponsors, and partners. Special thanks to the Fedora Linux and CentOS Stream communities for their foundational work in the Enterprise Linux ecosystem.
Conclusion
Rocky Linux 9.5 is a significant step forward, offering robust features, performance improvements, and extensive testing to ensure reliability. Whether you’re a developer, system administrator, or general user, this release has something for everyone.
Download Rocky Linux 9.5 now and experience the benefits firsthand!
