A null-pointer dereference in the Linux kernel allows local users to assume root privileges. Brad Spengler, who claims first discovery, announced that he will present a corresponding exploit during the course of the day.

The Linux-Kongress is traditionally where kernel developers exchange honors and advice about new features and enhancements. This year a number of speakers presented performance improvement data and discussed what aspects of Linux can be drawn out even more.

While Microsoft was assembling a promotional booth to celebrate their Windows 7 launch directly opposite the Japan Linux Symposium in Tokyo, Microsoft's biggest competitor couldn't resist spontaneously recognizing the textbook exercise in irony.

NVIDIA is temporarily suspending its chipset and CPU business until it settles matters with rival Intel. Its GeForce 9400M and ION brands will not be effected.

Nvidia has announced its first OpenCL-capable driver. Not only that: Linux users will get it at the same time as the Windows package, which complies with OpenCL's platform-independent concept.

Linus Torvalds has announced RC1 for Linux Kernel 2.6.32.

If you missed LinuxCon, you can watch the roundtable video archive online now.