16.04 no linux-firmware-nonfree package?

**BloodyIron** · May 25th, 2016

So I'm trying to get wifi going on a Dell D531, so I need linux-firmware-nonfree. But the repos show it as deleted, even though earlier versions say it's there ( https://www.howtoinstall.co/en/ubunt...rmware-nonfree ).

What's going on here?

**QDR06VV9** · May 26th, 2016

I just had to check and yes you are right.

Code:

$ apt-file --package-only search /lib/firmware/
amd64-microcode
atmel-firmware
dahdi-firmware-nonfree
firmware-crystalhd
intel-microcode
libsbigudrv2
linux-firmware
linux-image-4.4.0-23-generic
linux-image-4.4.0-23-lowlatency
nouveau-firmware
prism2-usb-firmware-installer

And then I remember some conflict it was having with "linux-firmware 1.7" so maybe it is still a work in progress...but this is just a guess from me ATM.
But I did find a link for .deb file but mind you...you are on your own here if you choose to install it
It may be just fine or it could break your system into an unusable paper weight.
So Proceed at your own riskLink here:https://launchpad.net/ubuntu/xenial/...e-nonfree/1.16
Kind Regards
PS If you do install it please let us know how it goes.

**jeremy31** · May 26th, 2016

If you are trying to get a broadcom wireless card working, try

Code:

sudo apt-get install firmware-b43-installer

The firmware was part of another package until late 2014

**BloodyIron** · May 27th, 2016

Okay so I got it working, but let me outline what I had to do.

1. The kernel was panicing when trying to shut down. This was only resolved by blacklisting the "wl" module.

2. Then I had to:

apt install b43-fwcutter firmware-b43-installer

Seemed to work properly, and survive a reboot. Wifi switch works too! Aww yeah! But step #2 was not working for me without blacklisting "wl"

**QDR06VV9** · May 27th, 2016

So did you just install "b43-fwcutter firmware-b43-installer"?
Or did you also install the firmware?
Just to keep it clear on your solution. So others are not confused. Plus could be important.
But Glad it is now working.

**jeremy31** · May 27th, 2016

Don't blacklist wl, uninstall it

Code:

sudo apt-get remove bcmwl-kernel-source

**BloodyIron** · May 27th, 2016

I actually did both, forgot to mention that, so that the wl driver couldn't accidentally get re-installed and activated.

Originally Posted by jeremy31

Don't blacklist wl, uninstall it

Code:

sudo apt-get remove bcmwl-kernel-source

**DuckHook** · May 27th, 2016

Thread moved to Networking & Wireless as the more appropriate forum.

Please mark thread solved using *Thread Tools* in the top toolbar for the benefit of others searching for solutions.