Achieve Low Latency in Linux

Last updated on May 1, 2023

To achieve super low latency on your Ubuntu system, you can make a few optimizations to your kernel, CPU governor, and other system settings. Here's an example of how to do this:

1. Use a low-latency kernel

Install a low-latency kernel, which is optimized for lower latency compared to the generic kernel:bashCopy

sudo apt update
sudo apt install linux-lowlatency

After installation, reboot your system to start using the low-latency kernel.

2. Adjust the CPU governor

Switch to the performance CPU governor to reduce latency by preventing the CPU from downscaling its frequency:bashCopy

sudo apt install cpufrequtils
echo 'GOVERNOR="performance"' | sudo tee /etc/default/cpufrequtils
sudo systemctl restart cpufrequtils

3. Configure the `swappiness` value

The swappiness value determines how often the system swaps data between RAM and swap space. Reducing this value can help lower latency:bashCopy

sudo sysctl vm.swappiness=10

To make this change permanent, edit the /etc/sysctl.conf file:bashCopy

sudo nano /etc/sysctl.conf

Add the following line at the end of the file:
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vm.swappiness=10

Save and exit the editor.

4. Disable unnecessary services

Identify and disable any non-essential services that may be consuming resources:bashCopy

sudo systemctl disable

Replace with the name of the service you want to disable.

5. Use a lightweight desktop environment

Using a lightweight desktop environment like LXQt, XFCE, or MATE can reduce resource usage and improve system performance. To install one of these desktop environments, run:bashCopy

# For LXQt
sudo apt install lubuntu-desktop

# For XFCE
sudo apt install xubuntu-desktop

# For MATE
sudo apt install ubuntu-mate-desktop

During the installation process, you'll be prompted to select a display manager. Choose lightdm for a lightweight option. Log out and select your new desktop environment at the login screen.

6. Optimize applications

When choosing software, pick lightweight alternatives whenever possible. Opt for applications designed for low-latency, such as the jackd (JACK Audio Connection Kit) for audio processing or rtirq-init for real-time IRQ management.

Remember that these changes can impact the overall performance and functionality of your system. Test your system thoroughly after making these adjustments to ensure it meets your requirements.