Critical Vulnerability in kernel-rt Package: Important Security and Bug Fix Update
Summary
ALSA-2026:75746: Important: kernel-rt security, bug fix, and enhancement update. Affects kernel-rt versions < 4.18.0-553.171.1.rt7.512.el8_10. Fixed in 4.18.0-553.171.1.rt7.512.el8_10. How to fix ↓
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Background
The kernel-rt package provides the Real Time Linux Kernel, which is designed for systems requiring high determinism. It is crucial for applications that demand precise timing and responsiveness, such as real-time data processing and control systems. This package is part of the AlmaLinux ecosystem and is essential for maintaining system stability and performance in real-time applications.
Vulnerability Detail
The kernel-rt package has been identified with multiple vulnerabilities, including a use-after-free issue in the xc5000 tuner driver due to a race condition (CVE-2025-39994) and a denial of service vulnerability in the RDMA/bnxt_re driver during QP destruction (CVE-2023-54048). These vulnerabilities can lead to system crashes, unauthorized access, or denial of service, severely impacting system reliability and security.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
4.18.0-553.171.1.rt7.512.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update kernel-rtTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, you can limit the use of the affected features or disable the specific drivers until the update is applied. However, this is not a permanent solution and should only be used until the patch is installed.
Conclusion
The kernel-rt package has critical vulnerabilities that require immediate attention. Updating to the latest patched version is essential to maintain system security and performance. Utilize tools like Vulert to monitor your applications for vulnerabilities effectively.
See every vulnerability recorded for kernel-rt →
FAQ
The kernel-rt package provides a Real Time Linux Kernel, which is optimized for applications that require high responsiveness and precise timing.
The vulnerabilities can lead to system crashes, unauthorized access, or denial of service, which can severely impact system performance and security.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. You can check your application using the Vulert playground without any signup.
While a temporary workaround can be implemented by limiting the use of affected features, it is strongly recommended to apply the update for a permanent fix.
It is advisable to regularly check for updates, especially after security advisories are released, to ensure your system remains secure.
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