How to Use the Command 'fwupdmgr' (with Examples)

The fwupdmgr command is a powerful tool used for managing firmware updates on Linux-based systems. With its help, users can update device firmware, including UEFI, using the fwupd tool. This command is highly beneficial for ensuring that devices operate with the latest firmware patches, which can provide enhanced features, improved stability, and security updates.

Use Case 1: Display All Devices Detected by fwupd

Code:

fwupdmgr get-devices

Motivation:

Understanding the current hardware configuration and the associated firmware versions on your system is crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting. Running fwupdmgr get-devices helps you identify the devices for which you can potentially check for firmware updates. This initial awareness is essential before attempting to manage or update any firmware components.

Explanation:

The get-devices argument is used here, which instructs fwupdmgr to list all the devices currently detected by fwupd on your system. By executing this command, you gain detailed insights into the state of each device, including their device ID, device name, firmware version, and other vital parameters.

Example Output:

20QUS00A00 System Firmware
  DeviceId: 1234567890abcdef
  Guid:     0987654321fedcba
  Version:  0.1.10
  VersionLowest: 0.0.1
  Parent DeviceId: None

Use Case 2: Download the Latest Firmware Metadata from LVFS

Code:

fwupdmgr refresh

Motivation:

Keeping the firmware metadata up to date ensures that your system is aware of the latest firmware revisions available. This metadata includes crucial information that guides fwupdmgr in determining what updates are necessary for your devices. By refreshing the metadata, you ensure that any subsequent queries or updates utilize the most current information.

Explanation:

The refresh argument commands fwupdmgr to download the latest firmware metadata from the Linux Vendor Firmware Service (LVFS). LVFS is a central repository where Linux vendors publish firmware updates. This updated metadata sets the stage for checking any subsequent available updates for your hardware.

Example Output:

Fetching metadata https://cdn.fwupd.org/downloads/firmware.xml.gz
Downloading...                [************************************]
Updating metadata cache...
Successfully refreshed metadata.

Use Case 3: List the Updates Available for Devices on Your System

Code:

fwupdmgr get-updates

Motivation:

Before proceeding with firmware updates, it is beneficial to determine which updates are available for your system’s hardware. This allows you to assess the necessity and impact of performing these updates. The fwupdmgr get-updates command achieves precisely this, offering a list of potential firmware updates ready for download and installation.

Explanation:

When you execute get-updates, you’re instructing fwupdmgr to scan the hardware detected on your system and cross-reference it with the latest metadata to identify available firmware updates. This provides a clear picture of updates that can enhance your system’s performance or security.

Example Output:

20QUS00A00 System Firmware has firmware updates:
  Version 1.2.0 available
  Version:  0.1.15
  Description: Bug fixes and performance improvements

Use Case 4: Install Firmware Updates

Code:

fwupdmgr update

Motivation:

Once you have identified the required firmware updates, the next logical step is to install them. Updating firmware can resolve bugs, security vulnerabilities, and sometimes bring new features. The fwupdmgr update command simplifies this process by handling the download and installation of firmware updates for your detected devices.

Explanation:

The update argument signals fwupdmgr to commence the update process for your system’s hardware. Utilizing the earlier downloaded metadata and identified updates, this command automates the update procedure, ensuring that your devices operate with the latest firmware enhancements.

Example Output:

Downloading firmware...       [************************************]
Decompressing firmware...     [************************************]
Device firmware updating...
Reboot to apply changes.

Conclusion

The fwupdmgr command facilitates seamless firmware management on Linux systems, providing essential functionalities such as device detection, metadata refreshment, available update checking, and firmware update installation. Each use case allows users to efficiently manage and maintain their system’s hardware, ensuring functionality and security by leveraging the latest firmware updates.