Whether you’re running Ubuntu, Arch, Debian, or any other Linux distribution, knowing how to quickly and accurately identify your OS version can be the difference between smooth operations – and compatibility nightmares.
And knowing your Linux OS version precisely is essential when troubleshooting a software installation, planning a system upgrade, or ensuring security patch compatibility.
This straightforward guide will demystify the process of checking your Linux operating system version and provide multiple command-line techniques that work across various distributions, such as Ubuntu, CentOS, Fedora, and more.
How to Check OS Version in Linux Command Line
There are six ways to check your Linux version via the command line. Here’s our guide to all six methods.
1. Using the lsb_release Command
The lsb_release -a command provides comprehensive information about your Linux distribution, including version details and codename. This command works across most Linux distributions and offers a quick, standardized way to retrieve system information.
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2. Using the /etc/os-release File
The /etc/os-release file contains detailed distribution-specific information that can be viewed using the cat command. It provides the operating system name, version, and other identification details. This method offers a reliable and consistent approach to checking the OS version across different Linux distributions.
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3. Using the uname Command
The uname -a command displays system information, including kernel version and system architecture, which helps identify the core operating system details. If you want to check the kernel version, you can use uname -r to view the kernel release information.
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4. Using the hostnamectl Command
The hostnamectl command offers a modern, systemd based approach to retrieving system information. It displays detailed operating system and hardware details in a clean, readable format. This command is particularly useful for systems using systemd as their init system.
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5. Using the /etc/issue File
The /etc/issue file briefly describes the operating system and can be viewed using the cat command. It provides a quick glimpse of the system’s distribution and version. This method offers a simple, straightforward way to check basic system identification information.
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6. Using the cat /proc/version Command
The cat /proc/version command reads the Linux kernel version directly from the virtual /proc filesystem, offering a quick and direct method to view kernel information. This command provides raw kernel details and is particularly useful for technical users seeking precise system information.
Wrapping Up: When and Why to Check Your Linux OS Version
Understanding your Linux OS version becomes particularly important when deploying web applications, and this is where platforms such as RunCloud shine for developers and website owners.
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Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a beginner looking to launch your first web application, RunCloud eliminates the traditional barriers associated with Linux server management.
RunCloud provides an intuitive interface that abstracts the technical complexities, allowing you to focus on your application rather than server configuration intricacies.
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FAQs on Checking OS Version in Linux
How do I find the kernel version in Linux?
To find the Linux kernel version, use the command uname -r in the terminal. This command will display the current kernel release number, providing a quick and straightforward way to identify the specific kernel version running on your system.
Which command shows the full OS version?
The command cat /etc/os-release provides comprehensive information about your Linux distribution, including the full OS version and name. Alternatively, lsb_release -a offers detailed distribution-specific information in a user-friendly format.
Is there a graphical way to check the OS version?
Most Linux desktop environments, such as GNOME and KDE, offer system information tools accessible through the settings menu. This menu displays OS version details in a graphical interface. These built-in utilities provide an easy, user-friendly method for checking system information without using terminal commands.
Can I check the OS version remotely?
You can check the OS version remotely using SSH by executing version commands such as uname -a or cat /etc/os-release on the remote Linux system. Ensure you have proper authentication and access permissions before attempting remote system information retrieval.
Are there differences in commands across Linux distributions?
While core commands like uname are consistent across distributions, specific version-checking methods can vary between Linux systems including Ubuntu, CentOS, or Fedora.
What is the significance of the OS version number?
The OS version number indicates the current release, including kernel updates, security patches, and feature improvements. Understanding your version helps manage system compatibility and security and determines eligibility for software and hardware support.
