“Too Many Pointless Things”: Torvalds Rejects TSEM Module, Sparking a Linux Security Civil War

On 17 December 2025, a dispute within the Linux kernel community re-emerged over a proposed TSEM module intended to implement a universal security model. Linus Torvalds voiced open frustration, arguing that the sheer number of security initiatives has long exceeded reasonable limits and that bespoke solutions add chaos with few tangible benefits.

He urged developers to work with existing subsystem maintainers rather than bypassing established processes, and warned that if authors could not convince those responsible for the security module subsystem, they were unlikely to persuade him either. The debate highlighted that maintaining numerous distinct security models within the kernel is viewed by some as a liability for long‑term maintenance and development.

Following Torvalds’ rebuke, a counterproposal suggested formally prohibiting new security modules, with supporters noting the need to balance innovation against fragmentation seen in commercial Unix systems. According to Linux Foundation’s Technical Advisory Board, the escalation could push the discussion into a more formalised forum, underscoring ongoing tensions around rules for introducing new security mechanisms.