Check OS Version in Linux

To check the OS version in Linux, you can use a variety of commands depending on your needs. Below are the most commonly used methods:

1. Using cat Command (OS Release Files)

Most Linux distributions store their version information in files like /etc/os-release or /etc/*-release.

Command:

cat /etc/os-release

Output Example:

NAME="Ubuntu"
VERSION="20.04.6 LTS (Focal Fossa)"
ID=ubuntu
ID_LIKE=debian
VERSION_ID="20.04"

2. Using lsb_release Command

If your Linux distribution supports the lsb_release tool, it provides detailed information about the OS.

Command:

lsb_release -a

Output Example:

No LSB modules are available.
Distributor ID: Ubuntu
Description:    Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS
Release:        20.04
Codename:       focal

3. Using hostnamectl Command

This command works on systems using systemd and gives basic information about the system, including the OS version.

Command:

hostnamectl

Output Example:

   Static hostname: linux-server
         Icon name: computer-vm
           Chassis: vm
        Machine ID: 1234567890abcdef
           Boot ID: abcdef1234567890
  Operating System: Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS
            Kernel: Linux 5.4.0-132-generic
      Architecture: x86-64

4. Using uname Command

The uname command shows kernel and system information, but it doesn’t provide the full OS version.

Command:

uname -a

Output Example:

Linux linux-server 5.4.0-132-generic #148-Ubuntu SMP Fri Dec 9 06:49:44 UTC 2022 x86_64 x86_64 x86_64 GNU/Linux

For Kernel-Only Information:

uname -r

5. Using /etc/issue File

The /etc/issue file often contains a simple description of the OS.

Command:

cat /etc/issue

Output Example:

Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS \n \l

6. Graphical Interface (GUI) Method

If you are using a Linux desktop environment, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings or System Information.
2. Look for the “About” or “Details” section.
3. The OS version should be listed there.

Summary of Commands:

Use Case-Specific Recommendation:

• For detailed OS info, use: cat /etc/os-release.
• For kernel-related info, use: uname -r.

Let me know if you need further assistance!