[LSF/MM/BPF TOPIC] Rust block layer abstractions and benchmark strategies

[Andreas Hindborg <a.hindborg@kernel.org>]

I All,

I would like to propose that we have a session on Rust in the block
layer again this year. Specifically I would like to discuss some rather
puzzling results I observe when I benchmark the C and Rust null block
drivers. I did a write up of the challenges I face at [1]. The
observations are not tied to rust, they also manifest in the C driver.

Being able to consistently benchmark performance of the null block
driver is rather important in terms of validating Rust for use in the
block layer. I would hope to be able to collect some feedback on these
issues during a session.

If time permits, I would like to give a status update on the efforts of
building a feature complete null block driver in Rust. I will send
additional patches that enable memory backed devices and timer
completions before the Summit. Most of the patches have been ready for a
while, but they are pending merge of dependencies (xarray, hrtimer,
module_params).

If anyone is interested, I would make myself available for deep dives on
the Rust block layer code base, 1:1 or tutorial style. We (the Rust
kernel hackers) have had some good experiences with these kinds of
sessions in other subsystems.


Best regards,
Andreas Hindborg


[1] https://metaspace.github.io/2024/12/02/problems-in-benchmark-land.html