GParted Live 1.7.0, a Linux distribution designed for disk partition management, has officially discontinued support for 32-bit systems. Developed on Debian Sid, the distro’s shift to 64-bit only follows Debian’s decision to stop providing i386 kernel packages. This change means users with older hardware may no longer be able to use the operating system. The release also includes an updated Linux kernel (6.12.37) and an enhancement that prevents accidental selection of the wrong disk during boot by organizing block devices more predictably.
According to Slashdot reader BrianFagioli, GParted Live serves a specific purpose: to provide users with a straightforward and effective tool for managing disk partitions. Whether they are resizing drives, preparing for dual boot setups, or recovering data, this live operating system offers a reliable solution. The removal of 32-bit support reflects broader trends in the Linux community, where newer technologies and hardware capabilities are increasingly prioritized over legacy systems.
The decision to drop 32-bit support is not isolated. Debian, which serves as the foundation for GParted Live, has also moved to phase out i386 kernel packages from its Sid repository. This move underscores a shift in the open-source ecosystem toward modern, 64-bit computing environments. Users of older hardware may need to seek alternative solutions or upgrade their systems to continue using such tools.
Alongside the 32-bit support removal, the 1.7.0 release includes several other improvements. These include the latest version of GParted, as well as an updated Linux kernel (6.12.37), which likely brings performance and security enhancements. Additionally, the addition of a mechanism to prevent random ordering of block devices at boot helps users avoid selecting the wrong disk, a common issue in systems with multiple storage drives.
While the transition to 64-bit-only support may pose challenges for some users, it aligns with the broader industry trend of moving away from outdated technologies. As more hardware manufacturers and software developers prioritize 64-bit systems, the end of 32-bit support in GParted Live represents a natural evolution in the Linux ecosystem.