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By Zayden R., September 14, 2026
The BFS file-system is being removed from the Linux kernel in version 7.4, following its limited use and functionality. This removal is part of an ongoing effort to clear obsolete file-systems and reduce maintenance burden.
The Linux kernel is set to drop support for the BFS file-system in its upcoming 7.4 release. This move marks another step in the kernel maintainers' efforts to streamline the codebase by eliminating outdated and seldom-used file-systems. BFS, originally used on the SCO UnixWare OS for boot partitions, has been deemed obsolete due to its very limited functionality. It supports only contiguous files and lacks subdirectory support, making it largely irrelevant for modern Linux users.
Ethan Nelson-Moore, who authored the patch for BFS's removal, highlighted that the file-system's driver, although small, provides minimal utility. The typical data stored on BFS partitions, such as kernels and bootloader settings, offers little incentive for access from Linux environments. This decision follows the recent removal of other legacy file-systems like EFS and FreeVxFS in Linux 7.3, underscoring a trend towards reducing the technical debt associated with maintaining rarely-used file-systems.
While the BFS driver was unlikely to cause maintenance issues due to its size, its removal aligns with new guidelines aimed at curbing the inclusion of file-systems that are poorly maintained or lack widespread use. Despite its removal, the UAPI header for BFS will be retained to ensure compatibility and safety.
For Linux engineers and sysadmins, this change signifies a cleaner kernel tree with one less outdated file-system to consider. It's a solid improvement for those who appreciate a more streamlined and maintainable Linux kernel.