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.