fwupd/fwupd
FreeA system daemon to allow session software to update firmware
FreeFree tier
About fwupd/fwupd
fwupd is a system daemon for Linux that enables automatic, safe, and reliable firmware updates. It allows session software to update firmware on various hardware devices, such as UEFI, TPM, and peripheral firmware. The daemon is configured by default to download firmware from the Linux Vendor Firmware Service (LVFS), an open platform where hardware vendors publish firmware updates. fwupd is open source, widely integrated into Linux distributions, and often used with graphical tools like GNOME Software. The project provides a command-line tool (fwupdmgr) and supports multiple plugins for different device types.
Key Features
Automatic firmware updates on Linux
Safe and reliable firmware updating with conflict detection
Integration with Linux Vendor Firmware Service (LVFS)
Supports multiple hardware vendors and device types via plugins
Command-line tool fwupdmgr for manual updates
Integrates with GNOME Software for a graphical update experience
Open source and community-driven with active development
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Automatic and safe firmware updates reduce manual intervention
- Centralized firmware management via LVFS simplifies finding updates
- Widely adopted in major Linux distributions (Fedora, Ubuntu, Debian, etc.)
- Open source with an active community and long-term support
- Supports a broad range of devices including UEFI, TPM, and peripherals
- Integration with desktop environments like GNOME for user-friendly updates
Cons
- Only available for Linux operating systems
- Requires hardware vendor participation in LVFS for firmware availability
- Compiling from source is complex and not recommended for end users
- Some devices may have limited or no firmware update support
- Configuration can be challenging for unsupported or exotic hardware
Best For
Updating firmware on Linux laptops, desktops, and serversEnsuring device security with the latest firmware patchesSystem administrators managing firmware across a fleet of Linux machinesEnd users updating firmware through GNOME Software or other session softwareHardware vendors distributing firmware updates via LVFS
FAQ
What is fwupd?
fwupd is a system daemon that allows session software to update firmware on Linux automatically, safely, and reliably.
Is fwupd free to use?
Yes, fwupd is open source software released under a free license (GNU General Public License).
Where does fwupd get firmware updates?
By default, fwupd downloads firmware from the Linux Vendor Firmware Service (LVFS), an online service provided by hardware vendors.