Ubuntu 9.10 Preview: Kernel Mode Setting

“Put simply, kernel mode setting means the Linux kernel, instead
of an X11 video driver, handles the task of configuring the
graphics mode of the console. The assignment of this work to the
kernel shaves away some overhead, making certain operations faster.
It also helps developers by allowing kernel problems to be more
easily debugged when X is running, and simplifying the video
infrastructure upon which Linux relies.

“Normal users shouldn’t expect kernel mode setting to
revolutionize their Ubuntu experience, but it does bring a few nice
improvements, including faster and smoother switching between user
accounts and between the X11 console and virtual terminals. This
video provides an idea of the new speed of these operations
(apologies for the crudeness):”

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