## Linux 7.0 Aims for Intel TSX for Superior Performance The upcoming Linux 7.0 kernel may bring a performance boost for Intel CPU users by enabling Intel Transactional Synchronization Extensions (TSX) by default. A patch has been queued into the tip/tip.git's x86/cpu Git branch in preparation for the Linux 6.20~7.0 kernel cycle. This change will enable the Intel TSX functionality by default on the mainline kernel for capable CPUs and those not affected by side-channel attacks due to TSX Async Abort (TAA) and similar vulnerabilities. For newer Intel CPUs with safe TSX support, this change can mean better performance with the kernel defaults. ## What are Intel TSX Extensions? Intel TSX extensions are a set of instructions that allow CPUs to execute transactions speculatively. Simply put, they allow multiple threads to access memory simultaneously, with the CPU handling any conflicts. This can lead to a significant increase in performance in multithreaded applications, especially in scenarios where threads compete for the same resources. The default enabling of TSX represents a step forward for Linux, making it easier for users to benefit from this technology without having to manually intervene in system configuration.