The team behind Devuan GNU+Linux has announced the stable release of version 6.0, codenamed “Excalibur”, on 2 November 2025.

Devuan 6.0 Excalibr release

This version is based on Debian GNU/Linux 13 (codename “Trixie”) but preserves Devuan’s commitment to avoid using the systemd init system.

Key changes

  • Kernel: Updated to the Linux kernel 6.12 LTS series, providing improved hardware support and real-time features.
  • Init system alternatives: Users can choose among SysVinit, OpenRC or Runit instead of systemd.
  • Filesystem layout: The merged /usr hierarchy is now mandatory; if you are upgrading from the previous Devuan release, you must install the usrmerge package in advance.
  • Desktop environments: The live-desktop default image uses Xfce; additional options include KDE, MATE, Cinnamon, LXQt and LXDE.
  • Architecture support: Fully supported architectures include AMD64, ARM64, ARMEL, ARMHF and PPC64EL. The project no longer provides an official 32-bit x86 (i386) installer ISO.

Upgrade & installation notes

If you are upgrading from the previous stable version (Devuan 5 “Daedalus”), the mandatory /usr merge requires attention: install the usrmerge package before you initiate the upgrade.
All installation media—live, net-install and full desktop ISOs—are available from the official Devuan download page.

Why this matters

Devuan occupies a unique place within the Linux ecosystem. By forking Debian and removing systemd, it provides a platform for users who prefer init-system freedom while staying within Debian’s package ecosystem. With Excalibur, the project aligns itself with Debian 13’s base, ensuring up-to-date packages and hardware support, while maintaining its philosophical stance.

Considerations

  • If you rely on 32-bit x86 hardware and were using i386 installer ISOs, note that Devuan 6 no longer provides a dedicated installer for that architecture—though i386 packages may still be available.
  • The /usr merge can affect custom partition layouts and scripts that assume a split /usr hierarchy.
  • While full desktop environments are supported, you may need to review init-specific service files and configurations, especially if migrating from a system using systemd.

Final thoughts

Devuan 6.0 “Excalibur” is a mature, careful update for users who value control over their system’s init and service-management. It may not offer flashy novelty, but it delivers stable infrastructure with clarity of purpose. If you seek a Debian-based system without systemd, Excalibur is a solid option.