this post was submitted on 27 Jan 2025
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Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Hello, I'm wondering if I should use the Linux-libre kernel or if I should stay with the stock Linux kernel. I do want to remain 100% FOSS and have Libreboot installed, but, does it really matter if I use the stock kernel or not? Can the blobs from the stock kernel be a vulnerbility? My only reason for wanting to stay with the stock kernel is because its better maintained and gets audited more. But I'm really just worried about the blobs, can they do anything?

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[–] data1701d@startrek.website 14 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

Depends on your hardware and distro. Might not be so bad assuming it’s one of those old Thinkpads. Also, though, if you’re on Debian; they deblob their kernel already and put the blobs in separate packages so they can be optionally used. Don’t install any blobs and you’re good.