OpenBSD 8.0 is here. It marks the project's 61st release, continuing a semiannual schedule that has run since 1996. The update introduces significant hardware compatibility changes. These include support for Intel Arc A-Series graphics cards and an expanded kernel virtual address space.
OpenBSD founder Theo de Raadt detailed the improvements in a post to the project's announcements mailing list. He emphasized the project's long-standing track record. He noted that OpenBSD has maintained a history of over thirty years with just two remote vulnerabilities in its default configuration. The operating system originated as a fork of NetBSD more than three decades ago. It is recognized for its focus on security.
The release includes specific technical updates. These are designed to improve performance and compatibility with modern hardware. A key addition is support for Intel Arc A-Series (DG2/Alchemist) graphics cards. The kernel virtual address space on AMD64 systems has increased to 512 GB, up from the previous 4 GB limit. This expansion allows the system to map more than 4 GB of VRAM, enhancing graphics capabilities.
Other notable changes include hibernation support for ARM64 systems and a new RPKI-to-router daemon called rtrd(8). The release also features improvements for RISC-V architecture, specifically kernel support for the 'V' vector extension and support for Advanced Interrupt Architecture. Wireless network drivers have been updated, with additions for 802.11n and 40 MHz channels for the qwx(4) driver.
Virtualization capabilities have expanded to support up to 64 virtual CPUs per guest virtual machine. The update also includes security and internal improvements for LibreSSL 4.4.0 and OpenSSH 10.6, along with enhancements to the vmm/vmd virtualization stack.