The Hardware Enablement (HWE) Kernel is a significant tool for Ubuntu users, especially those seeking to harness the latest hardware capabilities on a stable and reliable platform. Ubuntu’s HWE Kernel bridges the gap between the long-term stability of an Ubuntu Long-Term Support (LTS) release and the cutting-edge features found in newer kernels.
Key Features of the HWE Kernel:
- Enhanced Hardware Support: Regular updates for compatibility with the latest hardware.
- Optimized Performance: Tuned to deliver improved system performance.
- Extended Security: Regular patches and updates for enhanced security.
- Increased Stability: Balances the latest features with the reliability of an LTS release.
This introduction sets the stage for a technical how-to article, walking through installing the HWE Kernel.
Prerequisites for Installing HWE Kernel
To successfully install the HWE (Hardware Enablement) kernel on Ubuntu, ensure you meet the following requirements:
System Requirements and Supported Ubuntu Versions
| Component | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | 2 GHz or faster dual-core processor |
| RAM | 4 GB or more |
| Disk Space | 25 GB of free space |
| Network | High-speed internet connection |
| Supported Versions | Ubuntu 22.04 (Jammy), Ubuntu 20.04 (Focal) |
Additional Requirements
Most of these requirements should be automatically met on your default installation.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Internet Connection | Necessary for downloading the HWE kernel and applying updates. |
| Terminal Conventions | All terminal commands should be executed as a regular user with sudo privileges. |
| CLI Commands | Utilize the Command Line Interface (CLI) for installation and setup. |
| Kernel Management Tools | Ensure tools for managing kernel versions are installed (e.g., uname, grub). |
HWE Kernel Pre-Installation Steps
Verify the Existing Linux Kernel Version
To initiate the HWE Kernel installation on Ubuntu, it’s imperative first to determine the version of the Linux Kernel currently in use. This verification step is essential to decide if upgrading to the HWE Kernel benefits your system.
Accessing the Terminal
Access the terminal by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + T, or find the ‘Terminal’ application in your system’s menu. The terminal serves as a gateway to your system’s internals, allowing you to execute various commands.
Executing the Kernel Version Command
In the terminal, type uname -r and hit Enter. This command is a straightforward way to query your system for its Linux Kernel version.
uname -rInterpreting the Command Output
The command’s output is crucial for guiding your next steps. For example, on Ubuntu 22.04, an output like 5.15 LTS kernel Indicates that your system runs an older Long-Term Support (LTS) version of the Kernel. In such scenarios, upgrading to an HWE (Hardware Enablement) Kernel is advisable. The HWE Kernel typically encompasses a newer Linux Kernel version (e.g., 6.x series), offering enhanced hardware support and improved features.
Install HWE Kernel for Ubuntu 22.04
Initiating the HWE Kernel Installation
To upgrade your Ubuntu 22.04, or Jammy Jellyfish, to the HWE (Hardware Enablement) Kernel, begin by opening your terminal. The terminal is a powerful tool that facilitates direct communication with your system’s core functionalities.
Running the Installation Command
In your terminal, execute the following command:
sudo apt install linux-generic-hwe-22.04This command initiates the installation of the HWE Kernel. The sudo prefix grants you administrative privileges, ensuring the command executes with the necessary permissions. The apt install part signifies the action to install a package, and linux-generic-hwe-22.04 specifically targets the HWE Kernel package for Ubuntu 22.04.
Rebooting the System
After the installation completes, it’s crucial to reboot your system to apply the changes. Use the command:
sudo rebootRebooting allows your system to start up with the newly installed HWE Kernel, ensuring all changes take full effect.
Verifying the Kernel Installation
Checking the Installed Kernel Version
Once your system restarts, verify the installation by checking the kernel version. Open the terminal again and enter:
uname -rThis command, uname -r, queries your system and returns the current kernel version. After installing the HWE Kernel, you should see a version number that corresponds to the HWE series, confirming the successful upgrade.
Install HWE Kernel for Ubuntu 20.04
Installing HWE Kernel on Ubuntu 20.04 Focal Fossa
Upgrading to the HWE Kernel on Ubuntu 20.04, also known as Focal Fossa, involves a straightforward process that starts with a simple terminal command.
Executing the Installation Command
Launch the terminal, a direct line to your system’s core, and input the following command:
sudo apt install linux-generic-hwe-20.04This command initiates the installation of the HWE Kernel for Ubuntu 20.04. The sudo prefix is used to execute the command with administrative rights, essential for system-level changes. The apt install part of the command indicates the action of installing a package, and linux-generic-hwe-20.04 is the specific package for the HWE Kernel tailored for Ubuntu 20.04.
Rebooting for Kernel Activation
After the installation process is completed, a system reboot is necessary. This can be done using the command:
sudo rebootRebooting is critical, as it activates the newly installed HWE Kernel. It ensures the system starts with the latest kernel, integrating all the new enhancements and features.
Confirming the HWE Kernel Installation
Verifying the Kernel Upgrade
After reboot, confirming that the HWE Kernel installation was successful is important. Open the terminal again and execute:
uname -rThis command checks and displays the kernel version currently running on your system. Following the HWE Kernel installation on Ubuntu 20.04, the displayed version should align with the HWE Kernel series, confirming the upgrade’s success.
Revert From HWE Kernel on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
Understanding the Reversion Process
Reverting from the HWE (Hardware Enablement) Kernel to the standard kernel in Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 is a critical task for system administrators. This action is typically undertaken for compatibility reasons or to align with specific organizational standards.
Preparing for Kernel Reversion
Before initiating the reversion, ensure your system is running on the HWE Kernel. This can be verified by running uname -r in the terminal, which will display your current kernel version.
Executing the Reversion Command
Initiating Kernel Rollback
To begin the rollback process, open your terminal. Here, you’ll execute a series of commands to remove the HWE Kernel and revert to the standard kernel. The command varies slightly depending on your Ubuntu version.
For Ubuntu 22.04, use:
sudo apt remove linux-generic-hwe-22.04For Ubuntu 20.04, use:
sudo apt remove linux-generic-hwe-20.04These commands effectively remove the HWE Kernel package from your system. The sudo apt remove command is crucial as it ensures the safe and complete removal of the HWE Kernel, reverting your system to the standard kernel.
Finalizing the Reversion
After running the removal command, reboot your system with:
sudo rebootA system reboot is necessary to apply these changes and to start your system with the standard kernel.
Confirming the Kernel Reversion
Verifying the Standard Kernel
Once your system restarts, verify the kernel version to ensure the reversion is successful. Open the terminal and run uname -r again. The output should reflect the standard kernel version, confirming that your system has successfully reverted from the HWE Kernel.
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve navigated the essential steps of installing and managing the HWE Kernel on Ubuntu 22.04 and 20.04, along with instructions on reverting to the standard kernel when needed. Regularly updating the HWE Kernel can significantly enhance your system’s compatibility with the latest hardware and improve overall performance.