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By Zayden R., August 3, 2026
Linux 7.3 will support Realtek's RTL8261C and RTL8261D 10Gb PHYs. These chips promise improved power efficiency and are designed for WiFi 6/7 routers and cable modems, enhancing low-cost 10Gb networking.
In a move that promises to enhance low-cost 10 Gigabit networking, Linux 7.3 will include support for Realtek's RTL8261C and RTL8261D PHYs. These chips, which began gaining traction in the market last year, are designed to optimize power usage, consuming just 1.65W. Realtek's focus on these chips is to provide affordable 10Gb wired networking solutions, particularly for WiFi 6/7 routers and cable modems.
The inclusion of these PHYs is part of a broader update queued into net-next ahead of the Linux 7.3 merge window. This update not only integrates driver support for the Realtek RTL8261C and RTL8261D but also introduces necessary firmware blobs. Engineers will find that the ASIC support for these chips is integrated into the existing phy-c45 driver code, making it seamless for those already familiar with this driver.
Realtek's RTL8261C is an offshoot of the previously launched RTL8127, offering similar capabilities but with enhanced power efficiency. Meanwhile, the RTL8261D, introduced this year, mirrors the functionality of the RTL8261C, further expanding Realtek's 10Gb PHY offerings. With Linux 7.3, sysadmins and network engineers can expect more robust support for these components, potentially reducing costs and improving performance in network infrastructure deployments.
This update underscores the ongoing commitment of the Linux kernel community to support a broad range of hardware, ensuring that Linux remains a versatile and powerful option for networking solutions. As the merge window approaches, it's clear that Linux 7.3 will bring valuable enhancements for those managing large-scale network environments.
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