Compatibility Ubuntu - HP ZBook Firefly 16 G11 Mobile Workstation - 16" - Intel - 32 GB RAM (reference 98N61ET#ABF)

Support and Help
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1

Hello,

Ubuntu Version:
22.04 LTS

Desktop Environment:
GNOME

Problem Description:

I am in a professional environment where most users have Windows machines with virtual machines. As a developer, I managed to push for a machine with a GNU/Linux OS.

Currently, we are considering purchasing an HP ZBook Firefly 16 G11 Mobile Workstation - 16" - Intel - 32 GB RAM (reference 98N61ET#ABF). However, there are doubts about its compatibility with GNU/Linux.

Normally, I install my OS using a LiveUSB, but in a professional context, this method is not feasible. I found this reference on the Ubuntu certification site, but it remains ambiguous (HP ZBook Firefly 16 inch G11 Mobile Workstation PC (Core Ultra 7 155H) certified with Ubuntu | Ubuntu).

Do you have any additional information on the compatibility of this machine with GNU/Linux, as well as advice on installation and configuration in a professional environment?

Thank you in advance.

Relevant System Information:
HP ZBook Firefly 16 G11 Mobile Workstation - 16" - Intel - 32 GB RAM (reference 98N61ET#ABF)

2

You could contact HP directly. If you are planning to buy many systems then they may cut you a deal and/or support the OS on the laptop or even preinstall it for you

3

Note that Canonical also certifies devices for manufacturers, you might want to take a look at:

4

HP ZBook Firefly 16 inch G11 Mobile Workstation PC (Core Ultra 7 155H) certified with Ubuntu | Ubuntu

Pre-installed in some regions with a custom Ubuntu image that takes advantage of the system’s hardware features and may include additional software. Standard images of Ubuntu may not work well, or at all.

That’s my problem :sob:

So I ask if someone has more information :sos:

5

HP’s seem fairly popular, have seen many installs on various models.
Best way to test is to try it with live installer on USB flash drive.

HP often is not the most friendly, as you have to do several settings in UEFI. Particularly after install, it only wants to boot Windows & you have to go into UEFI and set Ubuntu as first in boot order.

If you have optional add in Video card/chip, you also need to install optional drivers as part of install. You can install after install, but bit more of a hassle.

Make sure UEFI & SSD/NVMe have latest available firmware.

Always have good backups before any major change.

You may need the latest LTS version or 24.04 for newer kernel & drivers.

1 Like
6

Thanks for your answer.
I understand, the problem with “best way to test” is that I cannot test before buying the machine

7

If you are not locked into the HP Zbook, you might consider Dell or Lenovo; both sell PCs pre-installed with Linux.

8

HP is one of the last to use fwupdate for UEFI firmware updates. And only some models included.

I suggest looking for systems with updates available via fwupdate. At least vendor recognizes users may not all run Windows. First level help desk will most often say they do not support Linux if system is purchased as Windows system.

https://fwupd.org/lvfs/devices/