Ubuntu LTS releases on the desktop have automatically installed OEM vendor kernels where needed and hardware enablement "HWE" kernels in later point releases by default. This provides a better out-of-the-box experience for Ubuntu desktop users and one less chore post-install if desiring a newer/better kernel. With Ubuntu Server 26.04 LTS, the server installer is finally doing the same.

With today's Subiquity 26.04 release announcement as the server installer for Ubuntu Linux, the Ubuntu 26.04 live server ISO will now default to automatically installing any HWE or OEM kernel where available.

The auto-install behavior can be changed for server administrators not wanting automatically to have a newer/different kernel, but it's a nice improvement for those deploying Ubuntu Server for a better out-of-the-box experience:

"Some machines require extra software (including drivers) to work correctly. This software is typically distributed automatically through a single .deb package called an OEM metapackage or HWE metapackage, which matches the hardware information. Previously, only Ubuntu Desktop installations would install such a package by default. Starting with Ubuntu 26.04, the package (if any) will also be installed for Ubuntu Server."

The [1]Subiquity 26.04 release notes also mention that user creation is now handled earlier in the process, support for groups for automated installations, improved TPM-backed Full Disk Encryption (FDE), and various fixes.



[1] https://github.com/canonical/subiquity/releases/tag/26.04