The Linux kernel is moving towards integrating Rust for some subsystems, as stated by maintainer Greg Kroah-Hartman. Rust's ownership and type system could significantly reduce the number of common vulnerabilities, estimated to eliminate around 80% of current issues caused by C programming errors.
At Open Source Summit India 2026, Linux stable kernel maintainer Greg Kroah-Hartman announced that certain Linux subsystems will be developed using Rust. This signifies a shift from the traditional C programming language, which has long been the backbone of the Linux kernel.
Kroah-Hartman highlighted that Rust offers a safer programming environment compared to C, minimizing errors related to pointers and memory handling. He mentioned that many vulnerabilities, particularly those leading to Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), stem from small mistakes made in C.
His observations suggest that approximately 80% of existing CVEs could be prevented if the kernel was coded in Rust.
Currently, the Linux kernel faces approximately 13 CVEs daily, primarily due to trivial programming oversight. These include errors like unchecked pointers and improper resource management. By transitioning parts of the kernel to Rust, maintainers could alleviate much of this burden.
Kroah-Hartman's journey from skepticism to advocacy for Rust is a notable transformation. Initially resistant to change, he now believes that Rust enhances productivity and makes coding enjoyable. He views Rust not just as a trial but as a permanent addition to the Linux ecosystem.
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The Linux kernel is moving towards integrating Rust for some subsystems, as stated by maintainer Greg Kroah-Hartman. Rust's ownership and type system could significantly reduce the number of common vulnerabilities, estimated to eliminate around 80% of current issues caused by C programming errors.