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By Zayden R., July 26, 2026
The Realtek RTL8723B WiFi driver is set to be integrated into the RTW88 Linux driver. This move aims to improve code quality and address long-standing issues.
The Realtek RTL8723B and RTL8723BS WiFi drivers are on the brink of a significant shift as efforts are underway to integrate them into the RTW88 Linux driver. This development could finally bring the RTL8723B out of the staging area, where it has languished since its introduction in Linux 4.12 back in 2017. The integration aims to streamline code and address the driver’s notorious complexities.
For years, the RTL8723BS driver has been a thorn in the side of developers, described by Greg Kroah-Hartman as a 'beast of a driver' due to its convoluted codebase and persistent issues. Despite numerous clean-ups, the driver has struggled with unnecessary abstractions and vulnerabilities to malicious WiFi access points, making it a prime candidate for a major overhaul.
The plan to merge the RTL8723B into the RTW88 driver, which has proven more robust and efficient, is a promising step forward. This integration not only has the potential to improve performance and security but also simplifies maintenance by reducing code duplication. For sysadmins and engineers who have had to deal with the quirks of the RTL8723BS, this news is a welcome relief.
While the transition is still in the works, the anticipation is high. If successful, this move could lead to a more stable and secure experience for users relying on Realtek's 802.11n WiFi solutions.