Linux · Graphics System (X11/Wayland)

Where does Mesa sit in the graphics stack, and what job does it do that neither the kernel driver nor X/Wayland handles?

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More in Graphics System (X11/Wayland)

You installed Linux on a laptop with an NVIDIA GPU and after enabling Secure Boot the machine boots but never reaches a graphical login. What single UEFI setting is the usual cause?
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Given only that you're running GNOME, why is GNOME the safest bet for using Wayland by default rather than any other desktop?
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