How to Show Current Linux Distribution and Kernel Version on Your System

Introduction

Knowing your current Linux distribution and kernel version is crucial when troubleshooting, installing new software, or simply understanding your system's capabilities. This guide will show you how to easily identify both your Linux distribution and kernel version using both command-line and graphical methods.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why Check Your Linux Distribution and Kernel Version?
3. Find Your Linux Distribution
   • Using Command Line
   • Using GUI Tools
4. Find Your Kernel Version
   • Using Command Line
5. Examples and Tutorials
   • Script for Combined Information
6. Conclusion

Why Check Your Linux Distribution and Kernel Version?

Checking your Linux distribution and kernel version can help you:

• Resolve compatibility issues: Different distributions and kernel versions can have varying levels of compatibility with specific software or hardware.
• Ensure minimum requirements: Many applications specify minimum Linux distribution and kernel versions for optimal functionality.
• Determine support periods: Knowing your distribution helps you understand the support period for your system and access updates.
• Identify and debug hardware compatibility issues: Certain hardware may not work properly with older kernel versions, so knowing your kernel version can assist in troubleshooting these problems.

Find Your Linux Distribution

There are a few different ways to identify your Linux distribution, both through the command line and graphical tools.

Using Command Line

The command line is a powerful tool for finding system information. Here are some commands you can use to identify your Linux distribution:

1. lsb_release Command: This is a standard command available on most Linux distributions.

   lsb_release -a
   

   This command will output information like:

   Distributor ID: Ubuntu
   Description:    Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
   Release:        20.04
   Codename:       focal
   

2. /etc/os-release File: Another universal method is to check the os-release file.

   cat /etc/os-release
   

   This will show you key details about your distribution, such as:

   NAME="Ubuntu"
   VERSION="20.04 LTS (Focal Fossa)"
   ID=ubuntu
   ID_LIKE=debian
   PRETTY_NAME="Ubuntu 20.04 LTS"
   VERSION_ID="20.04"
   HOME_URL="https://www.ubuntu.com/"
   SUPPORT_URL="https://help.ubuntu.com/"
   BUG_REPORT_URL="https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/"
   PRIVACY_POLICY_URL="https://www.ubuntu.com/legal/terms-and-policies/privacy-policy"
   VERSION_CODENAME=focal
   UBUNTU_CODENAME=focal
   

Using GUI Tools

Many Linux distributions have graphical system information utilities. Here are some examples:

1. Ubuntu/GNOME: Open Settings > Details. You'll find information about your operating system, including the distribution and version.
2. KDE Plasma: Go to System Settings > About this System for detailed system information, including your Linux distribution.

Find Your Kernel Version

The kernel is the core of your Linux system, and knowing its version can help you ensure compatibility, access new features, and apply security patches.

Using Command Line

Here are some command-line methods to check your kernel version:

1. uname Command: A standard command to get your kernel version.

   uname -r
   

   This command will output the kernel version, for example:

   5.4.0-74-generic
   

2. hostnamectl Command: Provides more detailed system information, including the kernel version.

   hostnamectl
   

   Example output:

   Static hostname: myhostname
   Icon name:       computer-desktop
   Chassis:         desktop
   Machine ID:      1234567890abcdef1234567890abcdef
   Boot ID:         12345678-1234-5678-1234-56781234abcd
   Operating System: Ubuntu 20.04.2 LTS
   Kernel:          Linux 5.4.0-74-generic
   Architecture:    x86-64
   

Examples and Tutorials

Here are some practical examples of how to get both Linux distribution and kernel version information using the command line.

Script for Combined Information

This script combines essential commands to provide both Linux distribution and kernel version information in one go:

echo "Checking the Linux distribution and Kernel version:"
lsb_release -a
uname -r

Copy and paste this script into your terminal, and you'll see the Linux distribution details followed by the kernel version.

Sample Output:

Checking the Linux distribution and Kernel version:
Distributor ID: Ubuntu
Description:    Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
Release:        20.04
Codename:       focal
5.4.0-74-generic

Conclusion

Identifying your Linux distribution and kernel version is a vital first step when troubleshooting issues, ensuring software compatibility, and keeping your system up-to-date. Whether you prefer the command line or graphical tools, the methods explained in this guide will help you quickly find the information you need.

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Happy computing!