NVIDIA Begins Requiring Signed GPU Firmware Images

An anonymous reader writes: In a blow to those working on open-source drivers, soft-mods for enhancing graphics cards, and the Chinese knock-offs of graphics cards, NVIDIA has begun signing and validating GPU firmware images. With the latest-generation Maxwell GPUs, not all engine functionality is being exposed unless the hardware detects the firmware image was signed by NVIDIA. This is a setback to the open-source Nouveau Linux graphics driver but they're working towards a solution where NVIDIA can provide signed, closed-source firmware images to the driver project for redistribution. Initially the lack of a signed firmware image will prevent some thermal-related bits from being programmed but with future hardware the list of requirements is expected to rise.

Comments

Re:that's sorta the problem

[Stan92057]

"You aren't understanding. Since it was explained fairly clearly, I'd guess you don't want to understand. But I'll try again anyway."

That statement was very uncalled for. how can my asking a question you in fact better explained in the reply be me not wanting to understand? But thanks for the explanation, hope is didnt take too much of your valued time.