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From time to time, the updates you get contain a new microcode package. You may be able to improve the functioning of the central processor (CPU) in your computer, by applying the latest Intel or AMD microcode.
This might improve the functioning of your CPU, because it may correct bugs in the default microcode that it receives from the motherboard. Or it may add support for your CPU which the motherboard BIOS lacks.
BIOS / UEFI updates for your motherboard, often contain newer microcode for processors. So make sure that your BIOS / UEFI is up to date as well!
Note: Installing or updating a microcode package may cause problems on your computer. But despite that, you'll have to install it if you want to add some protection against the Meltdown/Spectre vulnerabilities.
So far, so good. However, you might need a newer microcode package than the one available in your official software sources. If so, proceed as follows:
Note: this is an emergency measure. Don't do it just for fun, but only when it's really necessary! And even then: make sure you have a recent Timeshift snapshot of your system, which you can restore if your system would become unusable.
For Intel CPU's you can download an installable .deb package from the Debian repositories, which always contain the latest packages. Download it and then double-click it to install it. Afterwards, reboot your computer.
For AMD CPU's you can also download an installable .deb package from the Debian repositories, which always contain the latest packages. Download it and then double-click it to install it. Afterwards, reboot your computer.
Then check whether the new microcode has been loaded properly, with the following terminal command (use copy/paste to avoid typos):
dmesg | grep microcode
Press Enter.
If all has gone well, you should see several reports about the applied microcode, including its date.
Want more?
Do you want more tips and tweaks? There's a lot more of them on this website!
For example:
Speed up your Linux Mint!
Clean your Linux Mint safely
Avoid 10 fatal mistakes
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