Kernel 6.8

The Ubuntu 24.04.4 VMs are on 6.8.0.107

The Linux kernel 6.8.0-107-generic (version 6.8.0-107.107) is a security-focused update for Ubuntu (Noble 24.04 and Jammy 22.04), addressing multiple vulnerabilities. Due to an unavoidable Application Binary Interface (ABI) change, users must recompile and reinstall third-party kernel modules (e.g., NVIDIA, virtualbox) after upgrading, which is usually handled automatically by linux-generic metapackages.

 

Key Aspects of 6.8.0-107-generic:

  • Security Fixes: Addressed vulnerabilities related to CVE-2026-23060, CVE-2026-23074, and CVE-2026-23111.

  • ABI Change: This update requires re-compilation of third-party modules.

  • Driver Compatibility: Includes updated linux-objects-nvidia-590.

  • Known Issues: Some reports indicate potential Wi-Fi suspend issues (mt7925e error -110) on specific hardware like the Framework 16, as discussed in this community thread. Other reports mention Bluetooth scanning issues with certain adapters, such as the UGREEN CM390.

  • Compatibility: This kernel is used in Ubuntu 24.04/22.04 environments, with related KMOD updates potentially needed, as mentioned in this support document.

Action Required:
A standard system upgrade will usually apply this update, but a full reboot is necessary to activate it. If you use proprietary drivers, monitor your system for potential module failures

Research notes for HP Z840 workstation.

The Linux 6.8 kernel is the default kernel for Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat) and is also available in Ubuntu 22.04.5 LTS via HWE (Hardware Enablement) to support newer hardware. Key features include Intel Shadow Stack, BcacheFS support, Meteor Lake graphics support, and increased default vm.max_map_count. It includes major networking and security updates, though some 6.8.0-100+ versions have reported connectivity issues.

The best Ubuntu kernel for an HP Z840 workstation depends on whether you prioritize maximum stability or the latest hardware support (e.g., modern GPUs or NVMe drives).

For the best balance of stability and performance on the Z840, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or 24.04 LTS using the HWE (Hardware Enablement) kernel (6.x series) is recommended

  • Best for Stability & Performance (Recommended): Ubuntu 22.04 LTS or 24.04 LTS with the Generic/HWE kernel (6.2, 6.5, or 6.8). These kernels offer excellent support for the Xeon E5 v3/v4 processors and PCIe devices.

For an HP Z840 workstation—which typically runs Intel Xeon E5-2600 v3/v4 (Haswell/Broadwell) processors—both 6.8 and 6.18 kernels are vastly newer than required but will generally work, though 6.8 is the more established choice as of early 2026.

  • Linux Kernel 6.8 (Recommended): A solid, mature kernel that supports older workstation hardware perfectly while offering excellent performance for NVMe drives and GPU support (e.g., GTX 980).

  • Linux Kernel 6.18 (Future LTS): Based on late 2025 development, this kernel is intended for new hardware (AMD/Intel 2025+), though it brings advancements like enhanced security features (KVM x86 CET) and improved file system support