How to Check Ubuntu Version via Terminal and GUI

Understanding your Ubuntu version is important for staying up-to-date with security patches, and software compatibility, and optimizing your experience. Some software applications only work with specific Ubuntu versions. Checking your version allows you to take advantage of the latest optimizations and enhancements. When choosing new software the version requirements of the software are necessary that align with specific needs.

In this post, we will discuss how to check the Ubuntu version of a Linux operating system with the help of the command line method and graphical user interface. Whether you are a beginner in Linux this is the perfect way to start.

Checking Ubuntu Version

There are multiple ways to check your Ubuntu version both through the graphical user interface and the command line interface. The GUI methods are beginner-friendly and visual. However, the command line offers more details and is preferred by experienced users. Here is how to check it with both the graphical user interface and the command line:

Graphical User Interface

When beginners start with multiple Linux distributions such as the Ubuntu operating system the GUI method is easy to use for them. The following are two methods how to check the Ubuntu version in the graphical user interface:

Using Setting App

1. Click on the “Activities” or “Applications” icon in the bottom left corner.
2. Search for “Settings” and click on it.

3. Scroll down the left sidebar and select “About.”

4. Your Ubuntu version will be displayed under “OS Name.”

System Information

1. Follow steps 1 and 2 from the “Settings App” method.
2. Search for “System Information” and click on it.
3. Locate the “Operating System” section, and your version will be displayed.

Command Line Interface

The command line is often quicker and more convenient than navigating through graphical interfaces. Beyond the basic version number, the command line reveals details like the Linux kernel version, etc. Following are the methods to check Ubuntu version command line:

Using Release option

1. Open the terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
2. Type the following command to check the version.

lsb_release -a

3. To check Ubuntu version terminal look for the “Description” or “Release” line which reveals your Ubuntu version and codename.

Using OS release option

1. Open the terminal and type the command to check Ubuntu version:

cat /etc/os-release

2. Scroll down and find the line starting with “VERSION=” or “VERSION_ID=”.
3. The text following the “=” symbol identifies your specific version.

Using issue option

1. Run the command in the terminal:

cat /etc/issue

2. The first line often displays your Ubuntu version and codename.

Why need to check Ubuntu Version

Here are some reasons why you need to check your Ubuntu version:

• Newer versions of Ubuntu often contain critical security updates that protect your system from vulnerabilities.
• Checking your version ensures you’re running the latest and most secure release.
• Some software applications only work with specific Ubuntu versions. Make sure the software is compatible with the version.
• Different Ubuntu versions may have different features and performance improvements.
• In some cases, knowing your Ubuntu version can help diagnose and troubleshoot issues you might encounter.

Conclusion

Knowing the Ubuntu version is important for you to make informed decisions about software compatibility, updates, and system optimization. With the methods described above you can easily check the Ubuntu version. Whether you prefer the visual simplicity of the GUI or the detailed control of the command line you can move towards a secure, compatible, and optimized Ubuntu experience.

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