Z2 g9 linux installation

[mrbrklyn]

I brought an HP Z2 G9 from the HP store with Windows preinstalled on it... it was much cheaper than a customized linux ready version.

The UEFI does not has a classic version and the boot rom has been set to turn off secure boot and to boot from the USB. It can see the USB device but it will not boot into the installation boot loader. It just stares back at me with a blank screen.

I am looking for suggestions. The thing comes with something called the Wolf Security system that shows up on the boot screen when it powers up. I have turned off everything the UEFI boot rom that I see that might be causing a problem.

I called before I made the purchase to make sure that Linux could be installed on it and I was told that all the Z2's are Linux ready.

Incidentally, the serial number which is on the box is being accepted for registering the device.  The system refuses to believe that it is a real number

[TheOldMan]

While I have not actually had to work with Wolf Security system before, it is set-up to prevent such an activity as loading an OS different from Windows.  It is not impossible but you need the manual for from HP to see the procedure on "How to" get started.

Since Windows is already loaded, you can go to the support site

Official HP® Desktop Drivers and Software Download | HP® Support

Scroll down to the "Let HP detect your product" and then follow the prompts to get to the proper support page.  Look for the Maintenance and Service Manual .

Here is a guide for Wolf Security

HP Wolf Security User Guide

[mrbrklyn]

I don't use windows and FWIW - HP doesn't accept the S/N number in their system.  I've been told it can take weeks before a new S/N number can be registered.

[TheOldMan]

Since Windows is/was already loaded, I was just giving a way to find out how to get Wolf Security system out of the way for using Linux.

If you do not disable the Wolf Security system, you will not be able to install Linux.

Here is a YouTube for info

Bing Videos

OR

How to uninstall HP Wolf Pro Security

[mrbrklyn]

Thank you.  So essentially, I need to agree to the MS installation of Windows, then remove WOLF, and then I will likely get access to thumbdrive install media?  I am not certain how an OS program can change security access in the BIOS but it is worth a try.

[TheOldMan]

I did not watch the video or read the directions, so whatever was presented, I assume is correct.

[mrbrklyn · Accepted solution]

Well that doesn't work.  It is set up so that only MS windows will run on it and nothing can make it boot from the USB.  To top things off, HP tech support and customer service is now intolerable.  They are treating their customers like garbage.  I am so angry at HP right now, you can't imagine.  This might be like my 20th HP computer, more than that because we use them in every Pharmacy I ever set up.  I have never seen such garbage customer service and junk being passed off on clients.

This Wolf security is only security for MS and once HP puts it on there, there is no way in hell to get it off or to install Linux on it.

The lesson here is not to buy HP any longer, and Definitely never buy HP if you are using Linux or any other professional Operating system.   HP is dead and it is being eaten right now on the corporate level.

[mrbrklyn]

It doesn't work.  Nothing will make it boot from the USB.  It is being returned to HP.