HP Z6 G 1s

The "HP Z6 G1s" model is not a widely recognized designation within HP's workstation lineup. This article details the HP Z6 G4 and the newer HP Z6 G5 Workstations, which are prominent models in the HP Z6 series, providing a comprehensive overview of their features and capabilities.

Basic Information

• Model: HP Z6 G4 Workstation, HP Z6 G5 Workstation
• Version: G4 (4th Generation), G5 (5th Generation)
• Release Date:
  • HP Z6 G4: November 1, 2017
  • HP Z6 G5: September 1, 2025 (based on QuickSpecs document version date, indicating a recent or imminent release)
• Minimum Requirements: Varies based on operating system and specific software applications. Generally requires sufficient RAM and storage for professional workloads.
• Supported Operating Systems:
  • HP Z6 G4: Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, HP Linux-ready, Red Hat Enterprise Linux Desktop Workstation. Also supports Windows 7 Professional 64-bit (via downgrade media).
  • HP Z6 G5: Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu (recent LTS versions implied), Windows Server (for specific management tools). Windows 10 is supported for certain applications like ZCentral Remote Boost.
• Latest Stable Version: Refers to firmware and driver updates, which are continuously released by HP.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates for the HP Z6 G4 are not explicitly stated in publicly available information, but as a model released in 2017, it is considered an older generation. The HP Z6 G5, being a current or recently released model, receives active support.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated for the HP Z6 G4, but typically follows several years after the end of support. The HP Z6 G5 is a current product.
• Auto-Update Expiration Date: Not applicable in the same manner as consumer devices; OS updates are managed by the respective operating system vendors (Microsoft, Linux distributions).
• License Type: Typically includes a license for Windows Pro for Workstations or relevant Linux distribution licenses. Pre-installed software may have its own licensing terms.
• Deployment Model: Tower workstation, designed for demanding professional environments. The G4 can be rack-mounted. The G5 is also a desktop PC/AI Workstation.

Technical Specifications

• Processor:
  • HP Z6 G4: Intel Xeon Scalable family (1st and 2nd Gen Scalable), supporting up to 52 cores with dual CPUs or up to 28 cores per single processor.
  • HP Z6 G5: Single Intel Xeon W-series 4th and 5th Generation processors (LGA4677), with up to 36 cores and up to 310W.
• RAM:
  • HP Z6 G4: Up to 384 GB DDR4-2666 ECC RAM (single CPU) or up to 768 GB DDR4-2933 ECC RAM (dual CPUs) across 12 DIMM slots.
  • HP Z6 G5: Up to 1 TB DDR5 4800 MT/s ECC Memory across 8 DIMM slots.
• Storage:
  • HP Z6 G4: Up to 46 TB total storage. Features two internal 2.5"/3.5" drive bays, two M.2 PCIe Gen3 x4 slots, and two 5.25" external bays. Supports SAS and SATA drives, including Intel Optane PMem.
  • HP Z6 G5: Up to 104 TB total storage. Includes up to four front-accessible, hot-swappable NVMe bays. Supports M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSDs (up to 8TB per drive). As of November 1, 2023, Windows requires installation on SSD, with HDDs used as additional data drives.
• Display: Supports multiple external displays. HP Z Displays and HP DreamColor Displays are compatible.
• Ports:
  • HP Z6 G4:
    • Front: Standard includes 1 headset connector, 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (1 charging). Premium option adds 2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C ports and 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (1 charging).
    • Rear: 6 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, 2 1GbE LAN ports, 1 audio-in, 1 audio-out, 1 PS/2 mouse port, 1 PS/2 keyboard port, 1 serial port.
  • HP Z6 G5:
    • Front: Standard includes 4 USB 3 Type-A (5 Gbps, 1 charging). Premium option adds 2 USB 3 Type-C (20 Gbps) and 2 USB 3 Type-A (5 Gbps, 1 charging), plus a combo audio jack. Optional media card reader.
    • Rear: 6 USB 3 Type-A (5 Gbps), 1 standard 1 GbE Ethernet port, 2 optional 10GbE ports. Optional Flex I/O modules can add Thunderbolt 4, additional USB-C 3.2 Gen2, or serial ports.
• Operating System (Pre-installed): Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, or various Linux distributions.
• Dimensions (W x D x H):
  • HP Z6 G4: 16.9 x 46.5 x 44.5 cm (6.65 x 18.3 x 17.5 in).
  • HP Z6 G5: 16.89 x 46.48 x 44.45 cm (6.65 x 18.30 x 17.50 in).
• Weight:
  • HP Z6 G4: Starting at 13.1 kg (29 lb); exact weight depends on configuration.
  • HP Z6 G5: Starting at 12.8 kg (28.2 lb), typical 14.1 kg (31.1 lb), maximum 24.3 kg (53.6 lb); exact weight depends on configuration.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP Z6 series workstations are designed for demanding professional workloads, offering significant power and expandability. The G4 model, while older, still provides robust performance with its Intel Xeon Scalable processors and substantial DDR4 ECC RAM capacity, making it suitable for complex tasks like VFX and rendering. Its modular design allows for upgrades, including a second CPU and additional memory.

The newer HP Z6 G5 represents a significant leap, particularly with its adoption of single-socket Intel Xeon W-series 4th and 5th Generation processors, DDR5 ECC memory, and PCIe Gen5 technology. This translates to higher core counts, faster memory speeds, and increased I/O performance, making it ideal for AI, machine learning, real-time ray tracing, and advanced VFX. The G5 also boasts greater storage capacity and more advanced GPU support, accommodating up to three high-end GPUs. Both models emphasize tool-less access for easy component upgrades, highlighting their long-term value and adaptability.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Firmware and drivers are regularly updated and available through HP's support channels.
• OS Support:
  • HP Z6 G4: Windows 10/11 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Windows 7 Professional 64-bit is supported via downgrade media.
  • HP Z6 G5: Windows 11 Pro for Workstations, Ubuntu, and Windows Server for specific management tools. Windows 10 is supported for certain applications.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly published for the G4 model, but general support for a 2017 product would be limited for major updates. The G5 is a current product with active support.
• Localization: HP products are available globally, with operating system and software support for various languages. BIOS (F10) Setup supports 15 languages.
• Available Drivers: Comprehensive drivers for supported operating systems are available on the HP support website.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable (workstation, not a printer).

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The HP Z6 workstation series offers strong support and compatibility, particularly for professional operating systems like Windows Pro for Workstations and various Linux distributions. HP provides essential drivers and firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and security. The G4 model, while older, still has a history of broad OS compatibility, including legacy Windows 7 support for specific enterprise needs. The G5, as a newer platform, focuses on modern OS versions like Windows 11 and recent Ubuntu releases, aligning with contemporary software requirements. Both generations benefit from HP's commitment to ISV certifications, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance with leading professional applications. The modular design and tool-less access facilitate hardware upgrades, extending the practical lifespan of the asset.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Z6 G4: HP Sure Start Gen3 (self-healing BIOS with intrusion detection), secure authentication, Kensington lock slot, full volume encryption, HP Keyed Cable Lock Kit, TPM 2.0 certified, HP Secure Erase.
  • HP Z6 G5: HP Wolf Security for Business, HP Sure Start Gen7, Intel vPro enhanced security, TPM 2.0 (Infineon SLB 9672), Absolute Persistence agent.
• Known Vulnerabilities: HP regularly releases security advisories and BIOS updates to address vulnerabilities. Users are advised to keep systems updated.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable to the hardware asset itself.
• Certifications:
  • HP Z6 G4: TPM 2.0 certified.
  • HP Z6 G5: TPM 2.0 (Common Criteria EAL4+ certified, FIPS 140-2 Certification).
• Encryption Support: Full volume encryption is supported. TPM 2.0 provides hardware-based security for encryption keys.
• Authentication Methods: Secure authentication features are integrated. Intel vPro technology offers advanced management and security capabilities.
• General Recommendations: Keep BIOS, drivers, and operating system updated. Utilize HP's security software (e.g., HP Wolf Security for Business) and hardware features like TPM. Disable unused USB ports in BIOS to prevent unauthorized data transfer.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The HP Z6 workstation series demonstrates a strong focus on enterprise-grade security. Both the G4 and G5 models incorporate robust hardware and software security features designed to protect the device, identity, and data. Key features like HP Sure Start (Gen3 on G4, Gen7 on G5) provide self-healing BIOS capabilities, guarding against firmware attacks. TPM 2.0, with its Common Criteria EAL4+ and FIPS 140-2 certifications on the G5, offers a secure root of trust for encryption and authentication. The integration of Intel vPro technology further enhances manageability and security for IT departments. HP Wolf Security for Business on the G5 provides a comprehensive security suite. While no system is entirely impervious, the Z6 series offers a multi-layered security approach that is highly commendable for enterprise environments, mitigating a wide range of threats from below, in, and above the OS.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, standardized benchmark scores for the "HP Z6 G1s" are unavailable. Performance varies significantly with configuration. General reviews indicate the Z6 G4 and G5 are high-performance workstations.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • HP Z6 G4: Capable of handling demanding workloads like visualization, computational design, VFX, and rendering. Offers seamless performance for graphics-intensive tasks.
  • HP Z6 G5: Accelerates AI and graphics-heavy projects, including data visualization, machine learning, real-time ray tracing, and advanced VFX. Designed for extreme graphics performance and demanding workflows with powerful single-socket technology and multiple high-end GPUs.
• Power Consumption:
  • HP Z6 G4: Available with 700W or 1000W internal power supplies, up to 90% efficiency.
  • HP Z6 G5: Available with 775W, 1125W, or 1450W power supplies. Features smart fan control and precisely placed vents/ducts for efficient cooling and quiet operation.
• Carbon Footprint:
  • HP Z6 G4: ENERGY STAR certified and EPEAT Gold registered configurations available. Low halogen materials used.
  • HP Z6 G5: EPEAT Gold Climate+ registered, TCO Certified, and ENERGY STAR certified configurations available. Contains 40% recycled plastics, 10% recycled metal, and 100% sustainably sourced outer box packaging.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The HP Z6 series competes with other high-end workstations from manufacturers like Dell (e.g., Precision series) and Lenovo (e.g., ThinkStation series), offering comparable or superior performance and expandability for professional applications.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The HP Z6 workstation series delivers exceptional performance tailored for professional users. The G4 model, with its dual Intel Xeon Scalable processors and high DDR4 ECC memory capacity, excels in multi-threaded applications and graphics-intensive tasks. The G5 significantly elevates this, leveraging newer Intel Xeon W-series processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe Gen5 for substantial gains in raw processing power, memory bandwidth, and I/O speed. Its ability to support up to three high-end GPUs makes it a powerhouse for AI, machine learning, and advanced visual effects. Both models are engineered for quiet operation under heavy loads, ensuring a productive work environment. Their robust power supplies support extensive configurations, and their environmental certifications reflect a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. The Z6 series consistently ranks among the top-tier workstations, providing a compelling solution for the most demanding computational and creative workflows.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the HP Z6 series generally highlight its robust performance, expandability, and reliability. Users appreciate the workstation's ability to handle intensive applications such as 3D modeling, video editing, and data analysis without performance bottlenecks. The modular design and tool-less access for upgrades are frequently praised, allowing users to adapt the system to evolving needs and extend its lifespan. The quiet operation, even under heavy loads, is another common positive point. Strengths include powerful processor options, ample memory capacity, extensive storage flexibility, and strong graphics support. Weaknesses are less frequently cited but can sometimes include the initial cost of high-end configurations. Recommended use cases span a wide range of professional fields, including engineering, architecture, media and entertainment, scientific research, and AI/machine learning development, where reliability and raw computing power are paramount.

Summary

The HP Z6 Workstation series, particularly the G4 and G5 models, stands as a formidable asset for enterprise-level professional computing. These workstations are engineered to tackle the most demanding workloads, from complex simulations and data analysis to high-fidelity content creation and AI development. The HP Z6 G4, released in 2017, offers a highly expandable platform with Intel Xeon Scalable processors and DDR4 ECC memory, providing a solid foundation for intensive tasks. Its modular design ensures longevity through easy upgrades of components like CPUs, RAM, and storage.

The newer HP Z6 G5, representing the latest iteration, significantly advances these capabilities with single-socket Intel Xeon W-series 4th and 5th Generation processors, DDR5 ECC memory, and PCIe Gen5. This translates to superior performance, increased memory bandwidth, and enhanced I/O throughput, making it exceptionally well-suited for cutting-edge applications in AI, machine learning, and real-time graphics. The G5's support for up to three high-end GPUs and massive storage capacity further solidifies its position as a top-tier AI workstation.

Both generations excel in security, incorporating features like HP Sure Start and TPM 2.0, with the G5 benefiting from HP Wolf Security for Business and advanced Intel vPro capabilities. This multi-layered security approach protects against various threats, ensuring data integrity and system reliability. Compatibility with major professional operating systems and ISV certifications guarantee seamless integration into diverse workflows.

Strengths: Exceptional processing power and memory capacity, extensive expandability and upgradeability (including tool-less access), robust enterprise-grade security features, strong compatibility with professional software, and efficient thermal management for quiet operation. The G5 model's focus on AI and next-gen components provides a significant performance boost for emerging workloads.

Weaknesses: The primary consideration for these high-performance machines is often the initial investment cost, especially for fully configured models. For the older G4, end-of-life support for specific components may become a factor over time. Specific benchmark data for all configurations is not always readily available in public domains.

Recommendations: The HP Z6 Workstation series is highly recommended for professionals and enterprises requiring uncompromising performance, reliability, and security for demanding applications. The G4 remains a capable workstation for many tasks, while the G5 is the preferred choice for those pushing the boundaries of AI, data science, and advanced visual computing. Its modular design ensures a long-term return on investment, allowing for future upgrades as technological demands evolve. Users should carefully consider their specific workload requirements to select the optimal configuration, particularly regarding processor, RAM, and GPU choices. The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.