linux-test-project/ltp
FreeLinux Test Project (mailing list: https://lists.linux.it/listinfo/ltp)
FreeFree tier
About linux-test-project/ltp
Linux Test Project (LTP) is a collaborative initiative originally launched by SGI, OSDL, and Bull, now maintained by SUSE, Red Hat, Fujitsu, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and others. It delivers a comprehensive suite of test cases designed to validate the reliability, robustness, and stability of the Linux kernel and related features. The project includes tools for testing kernel syscalls, POSIX compliance, libc, and I/O subsystems, along with stress testing utilities like growfiles, doio, and iogen. LTP is widely used for kernel validation, regression testing, and test automation in Linux development environments.
Key Features
Comprehensive test suite for Linux kernel syscalls
Stress testing tools for I/O and filesystem (growfiles, doio, iogen)
POSIX and libc compliance testing
Automated validation of kernel reliability, robustness, and stability
Supported and maintained by leading Linux companies (SUSE, Red Hat, Fujitsu, IBM, Cisco, Oracle)
Open source under GPL-2.0 license
Extensive commit history (18,277 commits) and 37 releases
Includes build system and scripts for easy compilation
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of Linux kernel subsystems
- Well-maintained with active community (2.6k GitHub stars)
- Free and open source (GPL-2.0)
- Backed by major Linux vendors ensuring long-term support
- Includes both functional and stress testing scenarios
- Widely adopted in the Linux kernel development ecosystem
Cons
- Not safe for production systems due to potential system stress or damage
- Some tests (e.g., growfiles, doio, iogen) are intentionally designed to cause problems
- Requires a dedicated testing environment and careful setup
- Steep learning curve for configuration and customization
- Compilation from source may be needed (no pre-built binaries provided)
Best For
Regression testing and validation of Linux kernel patchesStress testing I/O capabilities in development environmentsPOSIX and libc compliance verification for operating systemsContinuous integration for kernel testingTesting new kernel features and bug fixesOperating system quality assurance and stability validation
FAQ
What is Linux Test Project (LTP)?
LTP is a joint project started by SGI, OSDL, and Bull, now maintained by SUSE, Red Hat, Fujitsu, IBM, Cisco, Oracle, and others. It delivers test suites to validate the reliability, robustness, and stability of the Linux kernel.
Is LTP safe to run in production?
No. LTP tests, especially growfiles, doio, and iogen, stress I/O capabilities and can cause system problems. They should not be run in production environments.
What does LTP test?
LTP tests Linux kernel syscalls, POSIX compliance, libc, I/O subsystems, and other kernel-related features.
What license does LTP use?
LTP is released under the GPL-2.0 license.
Where can I find documentation and community support?
Documentation is available at linux-test-project.readthedocs.io. The mailing list is at https://lists.linux.it/listinfo/ltp, and the IRC channel is #ltp on libera chat.