The integration of Rust with the Linux kernel has sparked controversy among developers, with some arguing that it’s a necessary step towards improving security and maintainability. However, others claim that it poses significant challenges to the existing C-based codebase.
Kernel maintainer Christoph Hellwig is one such developer who opposes the use of Rust in the kernel, citing concerns over maintainability and compatibility. He believes that adding another language to the mix will only serve to complicate the codebase and make it harder for developers to work together.
Despite Hellwig’s reservations, others argue that Rust can help mitigate memory safety bugs found in C and C++ code, which have plagued many projects in the past. The Linux kernel added support for Rust code on October 3, 2022, shortly after Microsoft Azure CTO Mark Russinovich argued that new programming projects should be written in Rust rather than C or C++.
The debate highlights a broader shift towards adopting more secure coding practices and languages like Rust. While some developers may resist the changes, others see it as an opportunity to learn and improve the Linux kernel’s security and maintainability.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2025/02/05/mixing_rust_and_c_linux