diff --git a/docs/reference/glossary.md b/docs/reference/glossary.md index a737e78..f0ba241 100644 --- a/docs/reference/glossary.md +++ b/docs/reference/glossary.md @@ -18,5 +18,27 @@ ABI ABI remains unchanged. linux-meta - Define linux-meta. + Refers to a set of meta-packages in Linux distributions like Ubuntu. These meta-packages do not + contain the kernel binaries or source code themselves but instead define dependencies that point + to the latest kernel packages. By installing a linux-meta package (e.g. linux-generic), users can + ensure they always receive the latest version of a specific kernel series through updates. In + the kernel development and {term}`SRU` lifecycle, linux-meta acts as a bridge between the release + of new kernel versions and the package manager. When a new kernel version is releasedand marked + stable, the linux-meta package is updated to reference the new version, allowing automatic upgrades. + +linux-signed + Refers to kernel packages that are cryptographically signed to ensure their integrity and + authenticity. These signatures are crucial for secure boot environments, as they enable the + system firmware to verify that the kernel has not been tampered with and is from a trusted + source. In the kernel {term}`SRU` lifecycle, linux-signed is created after the corresponding + unsigned kernel (e.g. linux-image-unsigned-6.8.0-50-generic) has been built. The signing + process is part of the release pipeline, ensuring compliance with secure boot requirements + and enhancing security in the kernel deployment process. This package works in tandem with + the linux-meta package to deliver signed kernel updates. + +SRU + Stands for Stable Release Update, a process in distributions like Ubuntu used to provide important + updates to packages, including kernel packages, after the release of a stable version. SRUs deliver + fixes for critical bugs, security vulnerabilities, and hardware enablement while ensuring the stability + of the system. ```