After using zorin os core for a few days I realized that my fingerprint scanner is not showing the user option. I can not use my fingerprint reader to unlock my laptop. It would be helpful for me if there were any options to get it back on
My device is HP-Elitebook 840 G2, I think it has a synaptic fingerprint reader. I did not find any other information if it is supported by linux or not.
I used the method shown by the zorin help option but it didnot work either.
So if there is any way please let me know, thatd be so helpful!!
As @Forpli has stated, the Linux kernel does not support that hardware. What you need to be aware of in regards to the Linux hardware site is there are 2 types of hardware unsupported status, outright 'failed', and 'detected'; this latter classification indicates that a distribution has recognised the device, but it won't work as there is no driver for it. You need to appreciate/be aware that hardware manufacturers are not going to waste their valuable time for the benefit of GNU/Linux users when the predominant OS in use is that other OS. A lot of hardware that has been made to work with the Linux kernel is down to volunteers who have managed to do some reverse engineering like the teenager from Sweden who was put under house arrest for enabling DVD devices to work on Linux, which hardware manufacturers declared a breach of Copyright.
Thank you for the detailed explanation. I appreciate the explanation regarding the difference between detected and fully supported hardware. I got to know why manufacturers often don’t provide Linux drivers. Also its sad to see how these restrictions hold back people who could genuinely find solutions.
The only sure-fire way is for notebook users to either sell their existing notebooks and upgrade to dedicated GNU/Linux machines or purchase compliant peripherals. For desktop users It may mean replacing some internal hardware but not always.
I think the biggest threat are developments between Microsoft/Intel and enforcement of Microsoft's motherboard and BIOS security requirements in the future.
