In order to broaden Linux hardware support and simplify the process of acquiring, installing, and updating device drivers, Novell has created a new driver system that will enable vendors to supply drivers to users directly. Linux drivers are traditionally maintained in the kernel itself, and third-party drivers that aren't available in the kernel often have to be installed manually, a process that generally involves compilation. In many cases, users have to wait for the next kernel release cycle before they can get software support for the latest hardware. Novell's new Partner Linux Driver Process could potentially resolve some of those problems by providing a simple and consistent process for deploying drivers independently.
With the Partner Linux Driver Process, users will use YaST (a modular system configuration utility used by the SUSE Linux distribution) to install special driver packages that also contain a URL where driver updates can be automatically obtained when a kernel update necessitates installation of newer drivers. Proper versions of the drivers are selected using kernel Application Binary Interface (kABI) metadata from the local system. In order to help hardware companies keep up, Novell will provide its partners with regular updates about potential kABI changes and updated kernels to facilitate rebuilds. Novell also plans to offer access to its own automated driver build service to some of its major partners, so that new versions of critical drivers get built automatically.
The extent of third-party support will probably make or break the Partner Linux Driver Process. Based on quotations included in the press release, it looks like the technology is endorsed by a number of major players in the hardware business, including Dell, HP, and IBM. Although the tight integration with YaST will probably slow adoption of the Partner Linux Driver Process in other distributions, Novell says it is committed to helping other distributions support it.
Although the the Partner Linux Driver Process sounds like a great idea for end users, some open source software advocates argue that it could indirectly promote distribution of proprietary binary drivers. According to the critics, the ability to easily distribute drivers in binary format gives companies no incentive to open their source code and work directly with the kernel developers. Like most other practical Linux users, I hold the opinion that binary drivers are better than no drivers at all, and I welcome any endeavor that improves hardware support on Linux. Hopefully, other distributions will adopt the Partner Linux Driver Process as well. More information can be found in the official FAQ.
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