Update device firmware with fwupdmgr

fwupdmgr checks LVFS for firmware updates (BIOS/UEFI, SSD, dock, touchpad) and installs them safely from the running system.

LinuxupdatesfirmwarefwupdMedium risk

Run `fwupdmgr refresh && fwupdmgr get-updates`, then `fwupdmgr update` to download and apply available firmware updates.

01Command

Command

$ fwupdmgr refresh && fwupdmgr get-updates

02What it does

Many laptop vendors publish firmware updates on the Linux Vendor Firmware Service instead of only as Windows installers. fwupd downloads them, verifies signatures, and stages the update — a reboot into the firmware flasher completes it. This is how you fix BIOS bugs, battery or dock quirks without a bootable USB stick.

03Risk

RiskMedium risk

Requirementsfwupd package; UEFI capsule support on most 2015+ hardware

!Warning: Keep the laptop plugged in during the whole process — losing power mid-flash can brick the device. Only update firmware you actually need; updates sometimes change behavior.

04Undo

Undo

$ fwupdmgr downgrade <device-id>  (when offered)

05Sources

fwupdmgr(1) — update device firmware
Arch Linux · community · 2026-09-17
Evidence: fwupdmgr refresh downloads metadata; get-updates lists; update installs
Linux Vendor Firmware Service (LVFS)
LVFS · community · 2026-09-17
Evidence: vendors publish firmware capsules distributed through fwupd

Last verified: 2026-09-18 · Category: System & Settings