How To Check Linux Kernel Version On Ubuntu Linux

The kernel is the core of any operating system. Whether Windows, Mac OS, or Linux, it’s the most important and core component of the operating system. The kernel sits between the hardware and the software. It manages hardware resources and relays information to the hardware on behalf of the software running on the computer. For example, if a software application wants to use the CD ROM drive or play music to the sound card on the computer, the kernel will find the resource needed for the application to make that happen. This brief tutorial shows students and new users how to find out which kernel version is installed and running on Ubuntu 18.04 | 16.04 LTS To get started, see the options below:

Use uname Command

The most frequently used command to find out which version of Linux kernel is currently installed and running is the uname command. Simply run the uname command followed by a few options to get Linux kernel details. To do that run the commands below: That should output a similar line as shown below: That tells you that the kernel begins to a generic Linux distribution, a 64-bit with version # 4.18.0-25

Use the hostnamectl Command

Another method to use to find out which kernel is installed and running with a bit of other information is the hostnamectl command. This command provides other details of the systems not available when using the first option above. To use the hostnamectl command, simply type it: It should show an output below Again, the same kernel, now you see its Architecture belongs to the 64-bit family.

Use the /proc/version File

Both command option options above use the content of the /proc/version file to generate and display the kernel version. While using the commands is a quicker option, you can sample the content of the version file by running the commands below: That displays the output as below: The Kernel number 4.18.0-24 is identified as:

4 – Kernel Version Number 18 – Major Revision Number 0 – Minor Revision Number 25 – Patch Number generic – Represents Generic Linux Distribution

These are some of the options available to you to find out Linux kernel versions. If you’re new or a student, these methods should come in handy. That’s it! Congratulations: You have successfully learned how to find which Linux kernel is installed and running on Ubuntu.