According to The How-To Geek, Devuan has released version 6.0 codenamed “Excalibur,” marking a major point release for the systemd-free Linux distribution. This update arrives following its base distribution Debian 13 “Trixie” which launched in August 2024. Key technical upgrades include Linux kernel 6.12 with features like kernel panic QR codes, APT package manager 3.0 with improved dependency resolution, and Xfce desktop environment 4.20. Notably, this is the first Devuan release without 32-bit i386 installation images, though older versions will maintain support until at least mid-2026 and 2028 respectively. The developers have already begun work on Devuan 7 “Freia” based on the upcoming Debian 14, expected around mid-2027.
What This Means For Linux Users
Here’s the thing about Devuan – it’s not trying to win the desktop popularity contest. It’s serving a very specific niche of users who genuinely care about init system choices. For people who’ve been frustrated with systemd’s complexity or philosophical approach, Devuan 6 represents a modern, well-supported alternative that doesn’t force them into that ecosystem.
And honestly? The timing is pretty interesting. As mainstream Linux distributions become more homogenized around systemd, having a viable alternative that keeps pace with current packages and security updates matters. The fact that Devuan is tracking Debian’s releases so closely means users aren’t sacrificing much in terms of software availability or hardware support.
The 32-bit Question
So what about that dropped 32-bit support? Look, it was inevitable. Basically every major distribution is phasing out i386 these days because maintaining those builds takes resources that could go toward more relevant work. The compromise – continuing support for older releases – seems reasonable for the handful of users still running decade-old hardware.
But here’s a rhetorical question: how many people are actually installing fresh Linux systems on 32-bit machines in 2024? Probably not many. The maintenance burden versus user benefit calculation just doesn’t add up anymore for most projects.
Upgrade or Fresh Install?
If you’re already running Devuan, the upgrade path looks straightforward via the official Daedalus-to-Excalibur upgrade instructions. For new users curious about the systemd-free experience, you can grab installation images from the Devuan installation page.
I think what’s most impressive is how Devuan has matured. It’s not just a protest fork anymore – it’s a legitimate alternative with its own release cycle, community, and clear roadmap. The project has detailed release notes and proper documentation, which suggests this is more than just a hobby project.
Broader Linux Implications
Devuan’s continued existence proves there’s still room for philosophical diversity in the Linux world. While systemd has clearly won the mainstream battle, having alternatives keeps the ecosystem healthy. It reminds everyone that choice – even about fundamental components like init systems – remains one of Linux’s core strengths.
Will Devuan ever challenge Ubuntu or Fedora for market share? Almost certainly not. But that was never the point. For the users who need what it offers, Devuan 6 provides a solid, modern platform that aligns with their technical preferences. And in today’s computing landscape, having options that respect user autonomy feels more valuable than ever.
