How to Check OS Version in Linux via Command Line 2026

Understanding Linux OS Version

The Linux OS version provides detailed information about the distribution name, release version, and system architecture, while the kernel version indicates the core component of the operating system that manages hardware resources, processes, and system security, making both details important for efficient system management.

Methods to Check OS Version in Linux (With Examples)

Method 1 : Using /etc/os-release

The /etc/os-release file contains standardized operating system identification data, and it is the most reliable and widely supported method for checking the Linux OS version across almost all modern Linux distributions.

• This command displays important details such as the operating system name, version ID, and distribution information.

Method 2: Using lsb_release

The lsb_release command provides Linux Standard Base information, which includes the distributor ID, release number, and codename, making it especially useful on Ubuntu-based systems.

Method 3: Using uname -a

The uname -a command provides a complete overview of the system information, including the kernel name, kernel version, hostname, architecture, and operating system type, making it one of the most comprehensive commands for quickly assessing the system environment from the command line.

Method 4: Using hostnamectl

The hostnamectl command is available on systemd-based systems and provides a comprehensive overview of the operating system, kernel version, system architecture, and hostname in a single output.

Method 5: Using /proc/version

The /proc/version file provides low-level system information about the Linux kernel, including the exact kernel version, the compiler used to build the kernel, and the build date, making it especially useful for advanced troubleshooting, kernel verification, and system diagnostics.

Method 6: Checking Kernel Version

The kernel version represents the core of the Linux operating system, and checking it is useful when diagnosing performance issues, driver compatibility problems, or kernel-specific errors.

Conclusion

• Checking the Linux OS and kernel version is an important task for system administration, troubleshooting, and software compatibility verification.

• Linux provides multiple command-line methods to view operating system and kernel details, allowing users to choose the most suitable command based on their requirements.

• The /etc/os-release file is the most reliable and recommended method for identifying the Linux distribution and version across modern systems.

• Commands such as uname -r and uname -a are useful for quickly checking kernel version and system architecture details.

• Advanced commands like cat /proc/version provide detailed kernel build and compiler information for deeper diagnostics.

• In some systems, the /etc/issue file may display a security banner instead of OS details due to security and compliance policies.

• Using the correct command helps ensure accurate system information, better troubleshooting, and efficient Linux system management.