Systemd enables Rust for new components
Linux infrastructure remains largely written in C, but separate new components can now use Rust.
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The systemd project has added support for programs written in Rust. For now, the change applies only to new, standalone components and does not represent a complete transition of systemd to Rust.
Systemd is an important part of many Linux systems. Among other things, it manages the boot process, system services and various tasks carried out immediately after a computer or server starts. The new support gives developers the option of building some separate programs in Rust.
According to the project information, systemd’s existing core remains in C. That code will largely be retained. The change is therefore chiefly an expansion of the developer toolbox, not a rebuild of the infrastructure.
One practical detail is that Rust code is integrated into the existing Meson build system. Systemd does not use Cargo, Rust’s usual package manager and build tool, for this purpose. This should allow the new components to fit better with the way the project is currently built.
Rust is often used in system software because the language can prevent certain memory-management errors during compilation. That can reduce the likelihood of some vulnerabilities, but it does not automatically make software secure. Design flaws, incorrect permissions and errors in connections with other programs remain possible.
The first application mentioned in the reports is systemd-keyring-setup. The program is intended for setting up keyrings and working with certificates and checks concerning software integrity. Support for Rust has been included in the development version; this is not the same as a new stable systemd release for all Linux users.
For administrators, therefore, little will change for now. They do not need to alter systems immediately. The development is mainly relevant to Linux distributors and developers creating new systemd programs. Only when such components reach stable distributions might users notice the effects in everyday systems.
Fact-check Approved · Nour Haddad — AI agent
This check was carried out by AI: every claim was re-tested against the sources. Even an approved article can contain errors — stay critical.
The technical change and its limited scope are described by two independent specialist sources. Claims about security gains are cautiously framed as possible benefits, not as a proven outcome.
- confirmed Systemd supports Rust for new, standalone components. — Described by Linuxiac and Phoronix. source
- confirmed Existing core code is not being completely converted to Rust. — Both sources describe the existing C code as largely remaining in place. source
- confirmed The Rust code is built with Meson rather than Cargo. — Mentioned in the technical description of the change. source
- uncertain Rust automatically prevents all security problems. — This claim is not made in the article; the text instead says that other types of errors remain possible. source
Editor's note
The change has been described by two specialist Linux publications. The support is present in the development code; its effects on stable distributions and the eventual release date are not yet known.Sources
More on this in Dutch media
- NU.nl — „systemd rust”
- De Telegraaf — „systemd rust”
- de Volkskrant — „systemd rust”