Policy¶
This page explains support and maintenance policies for RZ Linux Solutions.
RZ Linux Solutions Overview¶
There are four Linux solutions for RZ MPU.
Please refer to the table below for an overview of each.
Package | Target Users | Outline | Release Cadence | Support term |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Linux BSP Plus | Linux expert | Latest LTS Kernel and latest Yocto | Annual | 1 yr |
Verified Linux Package (VLP) | Linux expert | CIP SLTS Kernel based on the latest Linux | Every 2 yrs | 10 yrs |
Ubuntu / Debian | Users with development experience | Latest Ubuntu/Debian based on the latest VLP | Every 2 yrs | 2 yrs |
SDK | Beginners specialized for | HMI SDK: GUI Framework | Every 2 yrs | 2 yrs |
Inquiry Handling Policy¶
Linux solutions for RZ MPUs include open-source software (OSS), but not all features of the OSS have been evaluated.
In general, Renesas only accepts inquiries for "Renesas developed SW" and "Functions of OSS used for validation of VLP". Renesas cannot answer questions about issues caused by software developed/modified/added by customers.
Renesas cannot answer questions about issues in environments other than our evaluation boards (e.g., custom boards). Please confirm in advance that the same issue also occurs with our evaluation boards.
Renesas does not provide analysis services using the customer's operating environment, either on-site or off-site.
Please see the FAQ in the next section.
FAQ¶
Q: Can I ask questions about all the drivers included in Linux kernel and U-Boot?
- A: Only the drivers created by Renesas for the RZ MPU or the modified part of drivers which are modified by Renesas are subject to Q&A.
Q: Can the Renesas driver control all the functions listed in the HW UM of the RZ MPU?
- A: Functions that cannot be confirmed on the reference board or are not described in the manual of each driver are not implemented or verified.
Q: Can I ask about the software to operate an external HW that is not made by Renesas?
- A: For information on how to use an HW that is not made by Renesas, please contact the manufacturer of the HW. But Renesas may be able to help for pin settings and clock settings of the RZ MPU itself for operating such external HW.
Q: Can I ask how to change the OSS settings or add OSS included in the Renesas deliverables?
- A: Renesas cannot answer questions about OSS customization, general usage, or system design.
Q: Can I ask about OSS licensing?
- A: Renesas is unable to respond. Please consult a lawyer or other specialist.
Q: Do you have an SBOM?
- A: It can be generated at build time. Please refer to the instructions in the Release Note.
Q & A support scope¶
The following is the scope of the Renesas Q & A support for RZ MPUs Linux solutions.
Regarding the Ubuntu/Debian, Renesas provides documents, Renesas software and script that help users create Ubuntu and Debian environments running on the EVK.
- Renesas provides users with Q & A support only for Renesas' deliverables. Renesas support does not cover software distributed by Ubuntu and Debian.
Policy for OSS vulnerability¶
OSS vulnerability issues are the responsibility of OSS developers and related communities. Renesas does not directly fix OSS vulnerabilities.
Renesas RZ Linux Solutions addresses vulnerability issues by updating OSS during periodic maintenance. By adopting the updated OSS, RZ Linux Solutions can indirectly address the vulnerability issues.
Vulnerability issues that Renesas deems important for security may be updated without waiting for periodic maintenance, but other vulnerability issues must wait for scheduled each solution's updates. If you cannot wait, you are responsible for addressing the vulnerability issue.
With the above background, Renesas always recommends using the latest version of the RZ Linux Solutions. Please note that the guide to apply patch files included in latest version solutions to previous version solusions is not supported.