OpenInfra Foundation Has Released OpenStack Hibiscus
The latest open-source cloud platform update integrates new security features and expanded hardware support.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Data Centers
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The OpenInfra Foundation has released OpenStack 2026.2, code-named Hibiscus, reaching general availability on September 30, 2026. This version focuses on enhancing DNS security and introducing confidential computing capabilities.
Why it matters
The platform has undergone significant security hardening to address a rise in vulnerability reports. Additionally, these updates cater to the growing demand for AI workloads that require advanced hardware and storage integration.
The release includes 11,500 code changes from 600 contributors, representing growth of 28% and 21% over the prior cycle. Nova now supports AMD SEV-SNP and Intel TDX for hardware-backed memory encryption.
The players
OpenInfra Foundation
This is a non-profit organization that manages the development and growth of open-source infrastructure projects, including OpenStack.
OpenStack
This is a global open-source software platform used for building and managing cloud computing environments.
The details
Designate now supports DANE through TLSA record storage and split-horizon DNS via a BIND9 backend. Furthermore, the platform improves AI-related performance by allowing virtual GPU management through the Cyborg accelerator project.
Timeline
The project recorded 42 security advisories during the first eight months of 2026.
OpenStack 2026.2 Hibiscus reached general availability on September 30, 2026.
The Tech Race
This release follows the established pattern set by the OpenInfra Foundation's open-source infrastructure development cycle to integrate new security and hardware requirements. The shift toward confidential computing and specialized accelerators reflects the broader industry move to optimize cloud infrastructure for AI workloads.
Users can now implement hardware-backed memory encryption for virtual machines using the new hw:mem_encryption_model setting. Developers benefit from improved network traffic management, as Neutron now uses an EVPN service plugin to streamline data center fabric operations.
The takeaway
Organizations should evaluate the new memory encryption and DNS security tools to mitigate risks associated with cross-tenant bypass vulnerabilities. The increased contributor participation suggests that the platform continues to gain momentum as a standard for enterprise cloud architecture.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest infrastructure trends in our Data Centers section.
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Do you trust open-source cloud infrastructure to secure your company's most sensitive digital data?
