Optimizing the Linux Kernel
Speed Test

We explore some optimizations designed to deliver a smoother experience for desktop users.
The Linux kernel is the core part of all GNU/Linux operating systems. The kernel is designed to run on a large variety of hardware, from web servers to routers and embedded devices. The default versions of the Linux kernel that arrive with the mainstream Linux distros are optimized for some very basic use cases. For instance, Ubuntu comes in Server, Desktop, IoT, and Cloud editions – each with basic optimizations tailored for the usage scenario.
Most distros make some effort to customize the kernel for its intended purpose; however, no one but you knows exactly how you are using your own system. You can tweak the Linux kernel in hundreds of different ways to improve performance or reduce latency. I'll outline some of those techniques in this article. Of course, some of these tweaks might have already been enabled by your distro's vendor; others are more specific and are seldom used at all. The goal of this discussion is to take you down inside the kernel and to demonstrate various performance-related optimizations. Needless to say, tricks with the kernel have the potential to destabilize your system. These ideas are best explored with a test system – at least at first, until you are sure everything is working.
I'll discuss a range of Linux kernel optimizations with the goal of improving perceived desktop performance, including smoothness and snappiness. Such things may have little effect in synthetic tests (such as the ones often conducted by Phoronix), but they can have a strong effect on the user. I am aiming this discussion at desktop and laptop users, including the significant number of people who need to run Linux on low-performance and legacy hardware.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.