Installing the HWE Kernel on Ubuntu

In the Linux world, keeping your system up-to-date is crucial for security and access to the latest features. One way to do this on Ubuntu is by using the Hardware Enablement (HWE) kernel. This post will guide you through the simple process of installing the HWE kernel on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and Ubuntu 22.04 LTS.

What is the HWE Kernel?

The HWE kernel is an updated version of the kernel that comes with new Ubuntu Long Term Support (LTS) releases. The primary advantage of using the HWE kernel is that it provides newer kernel features and hardware support to users who are using an LTS release.

Installing the HWE Kernel

Installing the HWE kernel is straightforward. Depending on your Ubuntu version, you can use one of the following commands:

For Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, open a terminal and type the following command:

sudo apt install linux-generic-hwe-20.04

For Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, use this command instead:

sudo apt install linux-generic-hwe-22.04

Please note that you need to have administrative privileges to run these commands. You’ll be asked for your password during the process.

Important Information About the HWE Kernel

Please be aware that the HWE kernel comes with 6 months of support. After this period, you’ll receive a new HWE kernel through the standard update process. This cycle allows you to continually benefit from the latest kernel improvements while staying on the LTS release.

For more information about the Ubuntu kernel release cycle, visit the official Ubuntu Kernel Release Cycle page.