How to check kernel version in Linux

The kernel is the core component and heart of all Linux systems. It serves as the connection between software and hardware while managing all system resources. The kernel is essential for driver updates, security updates, bug fixes, system maintenance, documentation, and other system diagnostics. Ultimately, it ensures proper device management, overall security, and optimal PC performance.

Additionally, Linux administrators and other users must know their kernel version to ensure system stability and performance. However, for some beginners, it may not be clear to them how to find and verify the kernel version. So, in this short guide, we will explain how to easily check the kernel version in any Linux system. This will help users better manage their systems and ensure software and hardware compatibility.

How to check kernel version in Linux

The format of the kernel version is a.b. c-d. For example, 6.2.0-37, where a, b, c and d are the kernel version, its major revision, minor revision and patch number respectively. Checking the kernel version is easy, there are several methods you can use, let’s take a look at them.

1. Use the Uname command (the easiest way)
The uname (UNIX name) command is a powerful utility that provides key information about the Linux operating system. To display the kernel version, use the following syntax:

uname—R

When used with the "uname" command, the "-r" option displays the kernel version.

2. Combination of Dmesg and Grep commands
During the boot process of your Linux operating system, the kernel will display some messages. The "dMesg" command will recall these messages and display them again on the command line. Meanwhile, the "grep" command searches for specific text in any file or process. By combining these two commands, we can specifically check the kernel version.

sudodermesger|grep “Linux”

Here, "Linux 6.2.0-39-generic" is the kernel version. The previous command pipes the messages received from the "dmesg" command into the "grep" command to search for the term "Linux".

3. Read the version file
Linux stores key information about its kernel, such as version and distribution number, in the "/proc/Version" file. You can access this file to find out your kernel version with:

cat/proc/version

Please note that you must use this command in your home directory. After input, the following results will be produced:

Using the Hostnamectl command
The "hostnamectl" command displays the hostname and other information in the Linux device. However, you need to use it with the "grep" command to find the kernel version.

hostnamectl| grep kernel

in conclusion

Checking the kernel version is a basic task for every Linux user and system administrator. However, users cannot find it due to less understanding of some commands. So, we explain four simple ways to check kernel version in Linux. While the "uname" command is the simplest, all the other methods mentioned above will get the job done effortlessly.

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