Why Are Linux Distributions Phasing Out 32-Bit Versions

As we move into the future, the shift from 32-bit to 64-bit architectures is becoming increasingly apparent, with many Linux distributions phasing out 32-bit versions of their operating systems. This transition is driven by the declining importance of 32-bit hardware and the rising demands of modern computing. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this shift and discuss the implications for users and developers.

The Decline of 32-Bit Hardware

The 32-bit architecture was once the standard for most computer operations. However, with the advent of more powerful 64-bit processors and the increasing need for larger memory addressing, the landscape has changed dramatically. For many years, new computer chips were designed for 64-bit integers and support for 32-bit systems has become increasingly rare. The last non-64-bit CPU that is widely used is over a decade old, excluding some obscure Intel Atoms.

Cost and Maintenance for 32-Bit Support

Supporting 32-bit systems in the era of modern 64-bit hardware is not only time-consuming but also costly. This is because packages and kernels need to be tested and maintained separately, which can be a significant burden on the development team. As a result, some Linux distributions have officially phased out 32-bit support (referred to as i686 support) in favor of focusing on more modern hardware. Desktop distributions like Ubuntu and its derivatives, for example, still maintain 32-bit support, while server-oriented distributions like Red Hat and its derivatives have dropped it.

Historical Context and Old Systems

It's important to note that 32-bit operating systems were prevalent in the past, especially in environments with limited graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and limited graphics capabilities. However, as time has progressed, all modern hardware and software are built for 64-bit systems. Even Android has transitioned away from supporting 32-bit systems in recent years.

Practical Implications and Future Trends

The decision to phase out 32-bit support is not just about modernization; it's also a matter of practicality. With 32-bit hardware becoming a rarity, maintaining support for these systems is not a diminishing return. There are only a limited number of maintainers, and their resources are better allocated to supporting modern hardware.

For example, there are users who still rely on older systems, like Red Hat 6 servers running in 32-bit mode, which will continue to receive updates and security patches well into the future. By then, these systems will likely be obsolete anyway. On the other hand, new purchases of 32-bit servers are rare, and focusing on modern 64-bit systems makes more sense in terms of cost and functionality.

From a development standpoint, it's important to consider the library space bloat associated with supporting both LP32 and LP64 (long and pointer ABIs). In systems that support both, there is often a duplication of functionality, which can lead to unnecessary overhead. Over time, these issues have been addressed, and the critical last bit of 32-bit ABI is often the compiler. Today, the same source code can be compiled on 32-bit ARM or a 64-bit processor, eliminating the need for dual support.

Conclusion

In summary, the phasing out of 32-bit versions in Linux distributions is a reflection of the broader shift towards 64-bit hardware. While some desktop distributions still maintain 32-bit support, many server-oriented distributions have moved on. This transition is driven by both the impracticalities of maintaining legacy support and the focus on modern computing needs. As we continue to move forward, it is likely that the remaining support for 32-bit systems will dwindle, making way for a more unified and efficient computing landscape.