How to Check Ubuntu Version in Linux

How to Check Ubuntu Version in Linux

Knowing how to check the Ubuntu version is important for users involved in system administration and maintenance. Ubuntu, a widely used Linux distribution, is known for its user-friendly interface and active community. Understanding the version in use helps ensure compatibility with both hardware and software during various system tasks. There are several ways to determine the Ubuntu version, suitable for users ranging from beginners to advanced professionals.

Why Checking Ubuntu Version is Important

Before diving into the methods, let’s discuss why knowing your Ubuntu version is essential:

• Software Compatibility: Some applications require specific Ubuntu versions to function properly.
• Security Updates: Older versions may no longer receive security patches, making them vulnerable to threats.
• Troubleshooting: Many troubleshooting guides are version-specific.
• System Upgrades: Knowing your current version helps determine if an upgrade is necessary.

Now, let’s explore the different ways to check the Ubuntu version.

Using the lsb_release Command

The lsb_release command is a standard way to check the Ubuntu version. It provides details about the Linux Standard Base (LSB) modules in your distribution.

Steps:

• Open a terminal window (Ctrl + Alt + T).
• Type the following command and press Enter:

• You will see output similar to this:

The important information here is the Description, Release, and Codename fields.

Checking the /etc/os-release File

The /etc/os-release file contains operating system identification data. This method is useful for both Ubuntu and other Linux distributions.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Run the following command:

• The output should look something like this:

The VERSION and PRETTY_NAME fields indicate the Ubuntu version.

Using the hostnamectl Command

The hostnamectl command provides system information, including the Ubuntu version.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Run the command:

• The output will display details such as:

The Operating System field contains the Ubuntu version information.

Checking the /etc/issue File

Another quick way to check the Ubuntu version is by reading the /etc/issue file.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Execute the command:

• You will see an output similar to:

The first part of the output shows the Ubuntu version.

Using the uname Command

The uname command provides information about the system, including the kernel version, but does not explicitly show the Ubuntu version.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Run the command:

• The output will look something like:

This output indicates the kernel version. To check the complete system information, run:

Checking System Logs with dmesg

Advanced users can inspect boot logs to determine the Ubuntu version.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Execute:

The output will provide kernel details, indirectly indicating the Ubuntu version.

Using the neofetch Command (Optional)

neofetch is a third-party tool that displays system information, including the Ubuntu version, in a visually appealing format.

Steps:

• Install neofetch if not already installed:

• Run the command:

• You will see a detailed output with system details.

Using the screenfetch Command

Another alternative is screenfetch, which displays system details graphically.

Steps:

• Install screenfetch:

• Run the command:

• The output will show system details, including the Ubuntu version.

Checking the /var/log/installer/media-info File

For those who want to check the installation media information:

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Run the command:

• The output will display installation media details, which can help determine the original Ubuntu version installed.

Checking Ubuntu Version Using apt-cache

Another way to verify the Ubuntu version is by checking the package manager’s cache.

Steps:

• Open the terminal.
• Run the command:

• The output will indicate the version of Ubuntu you are using.

Conclusion

Performing a check on Ubuntu version remains vital for the maintenance of both secure operating environment and system compatibility. Multiple methods exist for verifying the system version including system file checks as well as both command-line tools and third-party utility tools. System security and efficiency together with software compatibility remain in excellent condition when you use system update information regularly.