AlmaLinux 10.1 brings full Btrfs installation support, CRB enabled by default, and more

AlmaLinux 10.1 is now available as the latest version of this enterprise-focused Linux distribution. As a binary-compatible replacement for Red Hat Enterprise Linux, it aims to deliver long-term stability. The new “Heliotrope Lion” release is powered by the Linux 6.12 LTS kernel, providing an up-to-date foundation for enterprise deployments.

Building on this core, AlmaLinux 10.1 introduces full installer and kernel support for the Btrfs filesystem. This enables users to select Btrfs as the root filesystem during installation, a feature initially introduced in AlmaLinux OS Kitten. While broader adoption of Btrfs features across the software collection is planned for the future, current support covers kernel and core userspace components.

The release also extends hardware compatibility. Notable improvements include additional drivers and a secondary version that expands support for x86_64_v2 processors. In the areas of virtualization and system diagnostics, AlmaLinux restores SPICE support, re-enables frame pointers by default, and continues KVM enablement for IBM POWER systems. The CRB repository is also now enabled by default on new installations.

Performance and security enhancements include refreshed compiler toolsets, updated module streams, and improvements to networking and debugging tools. Container and virtualization workflows benefit from updated Podman and Buildah, while security gains from updated SELinux policies, OpenSSL with post-quantum cryptography, and newer SSSD and Keylime versions.