Are newer `btrfs-progs` versions safe to use with older kernels?

Question

For example btrfs-progs-4.17 on kernel 4.14 - any issues, or can just upgrade btrfs-progs with no "back-compatibility" concerns?

Answer 1

According to the actively maintained btrfs Wiki on kernel.org...

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What version of btrfs-progs should I use for my kernel?

Simply use the latest version.

The userspace tools versions roughly match the kernel releases and should contain support for features introduced in the respective kernel release. The minor versions are bugfix releases or independent updates (eg. documentation, tests).

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Do I have to keep my btrfs-progs at the same version as my kernel?

No.

If your btrfs-progs is newer than your kernel, then you may not be able to use some of the features that the btrfs-progs offers, because the kernel doesn't support them.

If your btrfs-progs is older than your kernel, then you may not be able to use some of the features that the kernel offers, because the btrfs-progs doesn't support them.

Other than that, there should be no restrictions on which versions work together.

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