How to check kernel version on Linux

To view the Linux kernel version, you can use the following methods: 1. Use the uname -r command to directly view the currently running kernel version; 2. Use uname -a to obtain all system information including the kernel version; 3. View the /proc/version file to obtain kernel, compiler and operating system information; 4. Find system information through "Settings" or "About this PC" in the graphical interface; 5. Use dpkg --list | grep linux-image View multiple installed kernel versions (for Debian-based systems). These methods are simple and practical, and the appropriate method can be selected according to the environment.

Want to know how to check the Linux kernel version? In fact, there are many methods, and most of them are simple and quick. Whether you use the command line or the graphical interface, you can find a way that suits you.

Use the uname command to view

This is the most common and direct method. Open a terminal and enter the following command:

 uname -r

This command will output the kernel version number currently running on the system. For example, you may see results like 5.15.0-86-generic .

If you want more detailed information, run without arguments:

 uname -a

This will display all information including kernel version, hostname, operating system type, etc.

View through /proc/version file

The Linux system places a lot of system information in the /proc directory, where /proc/version contains the current kernel version information.

You can use the cat command to view:

 cat /proc/version

The output of this command usually contains kernel version, compiler version, and operating system information. Although not as intuitive as uname , it can be useful in certain scripting or debugging scenarios.

Find in graphical interface (for desktop users)

If you are using a Linux distribution with a graphical interface such as Ubuntu, Fedora or Mint, you do not need the command line.

Open options such as "Settings" or "About this PC". You can usually find the kernel version in "System Information" or "Details". The location may be slightly different for different distributions, but the general idea is to look for the "System" related menu.

Other tips

• If you want to know which kernel versions your system supports (e.g. multiple kernels installed), try:

   dpkg --list | grep linux-image

  (Applies to Debian based systems)

• In some server environments or containers, you may need to confirm whether a specific kernel module or customized kernel is used. In this case, in addition to the version number, you can also combine modinfo or dmesg to further troubleshoot the problem.

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Basically these are the methods, just choose the one that suits your current environment. Small skills that are not complicated but easily overlooked can help at critical moments.

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