Ubuntu Considers Splitting Linux-Firmware Package: Impact on Hardware Support & Performance

 Ubuntu developers debate splitting the linux-firmware package to reduce bloat. But will breaking it up harm GPU, networking, and security support? Learn the risks and potential fixes

The Ubuntu development team is debating whether to split the monolithic linux-firmware package into smaller, modular components. This move aims to reduce installation footprint but risks compromising out-of-the-box hardware compatibility—a critical feature for Linux users.

Why Ubuntu Wants to Break Up Linux-Firmware

• Growing Size: The linux-firmware repository has expanded significantly due to increasing hardware diversity.

• Installation Efficiency: Smaller, targeted packages could save disk space for minimal installations.

• Maintenance Challenges: Canonical engineer Juerg Haefliger highlights the difficulty of balancing firmware bloat with universal hardware support.

Key Concerns: GPU, Networking, and Security Risks

1. Graphics Firmware (GPU Drivers)

   • Blank screens or no hardware acceleration if GPU firmware is missing.

   • AMD, NVIDIA, and Intel drivers rely on these binaries for optimal performance.

2. Networking (Wi-Fi & Ethernet)

   • Missing firmware can disable internet connectivity, crippling system usability.

3. Security Implications

   • Older CPU microcode increases vulnerability to exploits (e.g., Spectre/Meltdown).

Potential Solutions & Challenges

1. Architecture-Specific Splits (ARM, RISC-V, x86_64)

• Remove irrelevant firmware (e.g., RISC-V binaries on x86 systems).

• Problem: Most firmware is shared across architectures, limiting savings.

2. Dynamic Firmware Installation

• Ubuntu installer could auto-detect and install only required firmware.

• Challenge: Handling hardware upgrades without breaking functionality.

"If firmware files aren’t present at boot, users face degraded performance or non-functional hardware."

Will Ubuntu Proceed with the Split?

The discussion remains ongoing, but the trade-offs are clear:
✅ Smaller install size for lightweight deployments.
❌ Risk of broken hardware support for GPUs, networking, and peripherals.

For now, Ubuntu must weigh storage efficiency against user experience—a decision that could shape Linux desktop adoption.