Tux Machines

What happens to Linux when Linus Torvalds dies?

Posted by Rianne Schestowitz on Nov 07, 2024

Quoting: What happens to Linux when Linus Torvalds dies? —

The Linux kernel development community is structured in a way that allows it to function without a single point of failure. While Torvalds plays a key role, he has delegated authority over different subsystems to trusted lieutenants. These individuals oversee specific areas of the kernel, making decisions and maintaining high standards in their respective domains. This hierarchy ensures that even without Torvalds, the project would continue under the stewardship of these maintainers.

In the event of Torvalds’ death, the leadership of the Linux kernel would likely transition to one or more of these senior maintainers. The Linux Foundation, an organization that supports and promotes the project, could play a role in coordinating this transition. The development would move forward with little interruption because of the established processes, well-maintained code, and the kernel’s open-source nature.

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