Hi Eric, This patch seems fine to me, and I'll apply it in a few days after sitting on the list for comments, but: > Note: READ_ONCE() could be used instead of smp_load_acquire(), but it is > harder to verify that it is correct, so I'd prefer not to use it here. > (https://lore.kernel.org/lkml/20200916233042.51634-1-ebiggers@xxxxxxxxxx/T/#u), > and though it's a correct fix, it was derailed by a debate about whether > it's safe to use READ_ONCE() instead of smp_load_acquire() or not. But holy smokes... I chuckled at your, "please explain in English." :) Paul - if you'd like to look at this patch and confirm that this specific patch and usage is fine to be changed into READ_ONCE() instead of smp_load_acquire(), please pipe up here. And I really do mean this specific patch and usage, not to be confused with any other usage elsewhere in the kernel or question about general things, which doubtlessly involve larger discussions like the one Eric linked to above. If you're certain this patch here is READ_ONCE()able, I'd appreciate your saying so with a simple, "it is safe; go for it", since I'd definitely like the optimization if it's safe. If I don't hear from you, I'll apply this as-is from Eric, as I'd rather be safe than sorry. Jason
