Interested in discovering which Linux kernel version your system is running?

The Linux kernel is the heart of the operating system—managing hardware, enabling communication between devices and applications, and ensuring overall stability and security. Even though it’s open-source, it’s designed with robust protocols to keep your system secure.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through several simple command-line methods to check your Linux kernel version—no advanced skills or root access required!

What is a Kernel in Linux?

The Linux kernel is the core part of the OS. It acts as a bridge between the hardware and the software. It controls everything from memory management and process handling to device communication.

Whenever you boot your system, the kernel is one of the first components to load—and understanding which version you’re using is essential for troubleshooting, updates, or software compatibility.

Requirements

Before you begin:

  • A Linux-based system (Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, RHEL, etc.)
  • Access to the terminal (use Ctrl + Alt + T or Ctrl + Alt + F2)

4 Easy Ways to Check the Linux Kernel Version

1. Using the uname Command

The simplest and most direct way:

uname -r

✅ This shows only the kernel release version, such as:

5.15.0-105-generic

Each segment represents:

  • 5: Major version
  • 15: Minor version
  • 0: Patch level
  • 105-generic: Distribution-specific info

More uname Options:

uname -a  # Shows all system info
uname -v  # Shows kernel version with build time
uname -o  # Shows operating system name

👉 Tip: For a full list, use uname --help.

2. Using the hostnamectl Command

This command is mainly used for system info but also displays the kernel version.

hostnamectl

Look for the line that says:

Kernel: Linux 5.15.0-105-generic

3. Viewing the /proc/version File

This file stores detailed information about the kernel.

cat /proc/version

Output looks like:

Linux version 5.15.0-105-generic (buildd@ubuntu) ...

📌 This method gives more context, such as compiler version and build date.

4. Using dmesg with grep

Want to extract kernel logs? Use:

dmesg | grep Linux

This reads the kernel’s message buffer and filters lines mentioning “Linux”.

Note: This may show multiple entries. The first few lines often indicate the boot-time kernel version.

Why Is the Kernel Version Important?

  • ✅ Ensures software compatibility
  • 🔒 Keeps your system secure with the latest patches
  • 🛠️ Helps in troubleshooting driver and hardware issues

Bonus: Modular Kernel Design

Linux uses a modular kernel, meaning extra features can be loaded/unloaded as modules.

Manage modules with:

modprobe <module_name>     # To load a module
modprobe -r <module_name>  # To remove a module

This allows flexibility and custom configuration.

Conclusion

Checking your Linux kernel version is quick and easy using just a few terminal commands. Whether you’re a beginner or a system admin, knowing your kernel version helps with system updates, security, and performance tuning.

You don’t need special permissions—just a terminal and a few keystrokes!

FAQs

Q1: What is the Linux kernel version?
A: It’s the identifier for the version of the Linux kernel your system is running. It helps determine compatibility and update status.

Q2: How can I check it via the command line?
A: Use commands like uname -r, hostnamectl, or cat /proc/version.

Q3: Do I need root access to check the kernel version?
A: No, all these methods work without sudo privileges.

Q4: Can I use GUI tools instead?
A: Yes, but the command line is faster and more universal across distros.

Q5: What is a modular kernel?
A: It lets you load and unload kernel features dynamically using modules.

Q6: How often should I update the kernel?
A: Regularly, especially when security patches or hardware updates are released.

Categorized in:

Support,