The Astra Linux operating system has received a major update to version 1.8, which announced “Astra Group”, which is the developer of the software platform. Among the significant innovations are an improved resource management mechanism to increase the speed of task execution, higher responsiveness of the OS and a redesigned user interface. All this makes Astra Linux 1.8 more convenient, productive and secure.
Image source: Astra Group
The basis of the eighth-generation Astra Linux is the Debian 12 package base codenamed Bookworm, which is a current and stable open-source distribution with a long period of support from the developer community. This allows you to use applications and libraries that meet the current requirements of customers. The developers have updated the structure of the Astra Linux repositories, dividing them into two – Main and Extended. The first repository includes components that have undergone a full certification cycle, and the second – development tools, packages for building the Main repository, additional application and system packages.
The OS comes with an updated installation program, which simplifies the process of system deployment. It allows you to collect all the necessary parameters in one window and perform installation in literally one click. There is support for the Live CD mode, which allows you to get acquainted with the new OS before installation. In addition to this, the developers have automated the process of updating Astra Linux 1.7 to version 1.8. The user’s home folder will be saved, and if an error occurs during the deployment process, you can “roll back” to the previous version.
The new Astra Linux also changes the approach to using kernels. The software platform is based on the 6 series kernels. Users will be able to choose between two OS development branches. The first one assumes using the OS based on the Linux 6.1 kernel with long-term support, and the second one — based on the Linux 6.6 kernel with short-term support. The Linux 6.1 kernel version is aimed at users for whom the most important issues are ensuring stable operation and information security.
The OS version based on Linux kernel version 6 offers advanced features for developers and system administrators, including improved support for virtualization and containerization. New features and updated drivers provide support for modern hardware, allowing users to efficiently use the resources of their devices.
Astra Linux 1.8 offers ready-made recommended profiles for configuring security tools for different usage scenarios. This should facilitate the work of information security specialists who are responsible for the operation of systems whose security is regulated by information security requirements (ISPDN, GIS, APCS, KII ZO, etc.). To implement software environment restrictions (dynamic software integrity control), you can now use certified CryptoPro CSP cryptographic information protection tools and digital signature verification key certificates issued by a certification authority.
The new Astra Linux is designed to process and protect any information with limited access. The OS has passed a set of tests in the certification system of the FSTEC of Russia for the first level of trust. One of the innovations is the confirmation of the compliance of the protected database management system Astra Linux with the requirements of the FSTEC of Russia.
Astra Linux 1.8 features the new Astra Proxima user interface, which is distinguished by its restraint, minimalist design, easy navigation and modern graphical solutions. Despite the updated visual style, the OS has retained the familiar user experience, which will ensure a smooth transition from previous versions of Astra Linux.
The Astra Proxima interface is the result of serious work and analysis of customer needs. It was created taking into account the latest trends in user experience and user interface. In the process of working on the new style, qualitative and quantitative methods were used, including user testing, focus groups with customers, and user behavior analysis. Due to this, the developers identified key elements that are important for comfortable interaction with the OS, and also adapted them in accordance with Russian standards and practices.
Astra Proxima brings many functional improvements, increasing the convenience and efficiency of working with the OS. Also noted is the appearance of the sound theme “Starry Minimalism”, which was created with the participation of Roscosmos. This unique composition is created from the “voices” of real space objects.
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