So, you want to know what version of Linux you’re running? Well, you’ve come to the right place! As a Linux enthusiast, I’m here to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of Linux distributions and figure out exactly which version you have installed on your system.
First, let’s clarify what a Linux distribution is. Linux itself is just the kernel, or the core of the operating system. However, in order to create a user-friendly and functional operating system, Linux is packaged with a collection of software, including a graphical interface, system utilities, and applications. These packages, combined with the Linux kernel, make up a complete Linux distribution.
There are countless Linux distributions out there, each with its own unique features and target audience. Some of the most popular distributions include Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and CentOS. Each distribution has its own release cycle and versioning scheme, which can sometimes make it confusing to determine the exact version you’re running.
So, how do you find out the version of Linux you’re running? Well, there are a few different methods you can use, depending on your distribution.
Method 1: Using the command line
If you’re comfortable with the command line, this is often the quickest and easiest way to find out your Linux version. On most distributions, you can open a terminal and type the following command:
lsb_release -a
This command will display detailed information about your distribution, including the version number. It will also tell you the code name of the release, which is sometimes used in addition to the version number. For example, you might see something like:
Distributor ID: Ubuntu
Description: Ubuntu 20.04.2 LTS
Release: 20.04
Codename: focal
In this example, the version of Ubuntu is 20.04.2 LTS, with the codename “focal”. The version number is often in the format “major.minor.patch”, where “major” is the main version number, “minor” is a smaller update or feature release, and “patch” is a bug fix or security update.
Method 2: Checking system information
If you prefer a graphical interface, many Linux distributions provide a system information tool that displays detailed information about your system, including the version of Linux. This tool is usually accessible through the system settings or control panel.
In Ubuntu, for example, you can go to the “About” section in the system settings, where you’ll find information about the distribution, including the version number.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to find out what version of Linux you’re running, you can confidently navigate the Linux world and stay up to date with the latest releases and features. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux user or just getting started, understanding your Linux version is an important step in troubleshooting issues, installing software, and staying secure.
So go ahead, open up that terminal or dive into your system settings and discover the version of Linux that powers your computer. Happy exploring!
