Clonezilla Linux Distro 3.2 is Released

Clonezilla Live, the renowned free and open-source disk cloning and imaging tool, has just released its latest version, 3.2, packed with significant improvements and bug fixes. For those unfamiliar, Clonezilla Live enables users to create precise copies or images of entire disks or partitions, making it a valuable tool for tasks like system backups, disaster recovery, and system migration.

One of the most notable changes in Clonezilla Live 3.2 is the upgrade of its underlying operating system. The new release is now based on the Debian Sid repository, incorporating updates as of July 15, 2024. This update brings a significant bump in the Linux kernel version to 6.11, offering users enhanced hardware support and improved performance.

Furthermore, Clonezilla Live 3.2 has undergone a streamlining process, with the removal of certain packages from the live system. The "wireless-tools" package, no longer available in the Debian packages repository, has been removed. In its place, the "iw" package, which provides similar wireless configuration functionality, remains included in the live system. Another package that has been eliminated is "reiser4progs," deemed unnecessary for the live system setup.

Clonezilla Live 3.2 also introduces an enhancement to the ocs-scan-disk program. By utilizing lsblk, the new approach results in a cleaner and more efficient code, allowing block devices with file systems (such as a partition like sda with an NTFS file system) to be displayed correctly. This change also addresses existing issues, making it easier for users to accurately scan and identify disks.

Lastly, the new release sees the merging of zstd, a lossless data compression algorithm, and zstdmt utilities. This consolidation simplifies the default command to "zstd -T0," eliminating extra variables related to zstdmt and making customization more straightforward for users. The result is a more user-friendly experience with fewer parameters to adjust. Only a few variables, such as "extra_zstd_opt," "extra_zstd_dc_opt," and their on-the-fly counterparts, remain available for configuration.

The latest version of Clonezilla Live delivers a range of enhancements, including a more up-to-date operating system, streamlined package management, and improved disk scanning functionality. The merger of zstd and zstdmt utilities simplifies customization and enhances ease of use. Users can explore the official announcement for a detailed account of all changes implemented in Clonezilla Live 3.2.