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efibootmgr review

Free#16 of 29 in Boot Manager Software

A focused Linux command-line tool for precise UEFI boot-entry management.

7.5/10Editor score
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

efibootmgr is an open-source Linux user-space utility for modifying the EFI Boot Manager. It is intended for Linux operating-system installers, system administrators, and users who manage UEFI-based systems from the command line. The utility focuses on direct boot-entry control rather than presenting a graphical boot menu. Its core functions include creating and deleting EFI entries, activating or deactivating entries, changing boot order, selecting the next boot option, configuring the boot-manager timeout, creating network-boot entries, and displaying current boot-manager settings.

For administrators handling multiboot systems, the breadth of boot-entry operations is the main strength. efibootmgr can inspect current settings and make targeted changes without limiting management to persistent boot order: the one-time next-boot option supports a separate use case. It also covers network-boot entry creation, while the published category specifications identify support for UEFI, multiboot configurations, boot-entry editing, and boot-menu customization. This makes it a practical fit for Linux environments where scripting, repeatable commands, and precise firmware-entry changes matter more than graphical navigation.

The trade-off is a narrow platform and interface scope. efibootmgr supports Linux and UEFI, while BIOS systems are outside its stated support. It also requires efivarfs or the legacy efivars kernel module to be loaded before use, making that system prerequisite part of the setup process. Choose efibootmgr when you need focused command-line control over UEFI entries on Linux. Choose an alternative when you need BIOS support, a graphical workflow, or broader operating-system coverage.

efibootmgr pros and cons

  • Where it wins
    • Creates, deletes, activates, and deactivates EFI boot entries
    • Changes boot order and selects a one-time next boot option
    • Supports boot-manager timeouts and network-boot entries
  • Where it doesn't
    • Linux-only, with no support for other operating systems
    • Requires UEFI; BIOS systems are not supported
    • Command-line operation requires efivarfs or the legacy efivars module

efibootmgr fact sheet, pricing and score →

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