How to Check Ubuntu Version? (A Comprehensive: Step-by-Step Guide)

Ubuntu is a widely used Linux distribution celebrated for its ease of use and frequent updates. While Ubuntu is designed to be user-friendly and highly customizable, it might not always work seamlessly with certain software. Therefore, understanding your Ubuntu version is important for tasks such as troubleshooting, installing software, or ensuring compatibility. 

If you're unsure about the version you're running, it is important to execute the appropriate Linux commands for your system. This guide outlines several ways to check Ubuntu version, using both terminal commands and graphical tools.

Prerequisites

Before checking your Ubuntu version, ensure the following requirements are met:

• A system running Ubuntu OS or an Ubuntu VPS.
• Access to an account with sudo or root privileges to execute commands.

How to Find Ubuntu Version? (Get Ubuntu Version)

You can find Ubuntu version installed and running on your system using two straightforward ways:

1. Check Ubuntu Version using the Command Line
2. Check Ubuntu Version using GUI (Graphical User Interface)

Method 1: Check Ubuntu Version Using the Command Line

If you are familiar with using terminal commands, there are three effective ways to get Ubuntu version installed on your system. Let’s explore each method step by step:

Check Ubuntu Version with lsb_release -a Command

First, open the Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T or searching for it in the applications menu. To launch the terminal, you will type “Terminal” in teh search bar and click on the terminal application that will display in the result. Here, you can type different linux commands and perform certain operations on your system via the command line.

To check Ubuntu version, type the following command and hit Enter:

# lsb_release -a

The above command will display detailed information, including the Ubuntu version, codename, and more.

Find Ubuntu Version with cat /etc/lsb-release Command

Open the Terminal and type the following command to find Ubuntu version:

# cat /etc/lsb-release

This command will display the distribution_id, release and description of your installed Ubuntu version.

Get Ubuntu Version with cat /etc/*release Command

First, access the Terminal window. Now, use the cat command to view the Ubuntu release information. The cat command displays the file content on the terminal. Run this command to get Ubuntu version:

$ cat /etc/*release

The output will include comprehensive version details, such as the Ubuntu version number.

Check Ubuntu Version with the hostnamectl Command

Start by opening the Terminal. Type the following command and press Enter:

# hostnamectl

This command will provide a variety of system information. Look for the "Operating System" section in the output, where you'll find the details about your installed Ubuntu version, along with other information about the system's configuration.

Method 2: Check Ubuntu Version Using the Graphical User Interface

For those who prefer a more intuitive, visual method, you can easily check your Ubuntu version using the graphical interface.

Knowing which version of Ubuntu you're running is essential for various reasons. It helps ensure your system remains up-to-date with security patches, minimizes compatibility issues between software and hardware, and keeps your system well-maintained.

This process involves regularly updating your operating system to receive the latest updates, and bug fixes, and addressing any troubleshooting concerns that may arise.

The most straightforward way to get Ubuntu version is through the Settings menu. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Access Setting Menu

You can access the system settings in two simple ways:

Click the "Settings" icon in the launcher, which is located on the left side of your screen. This icon typically appears as a gear or wrench.

Press the "Super" key (Windows key) and type "Settings" in the search bar. Once you type "Settings," click the application that appears in the search results.

Step 2: Visit Details Option

Once you’ve opened the Settings window, you’ll see a list of categories on the left-hand side. Find and click on the "Details" option. This section contains important information about your system.

Step 3: Check Ubuntu Version

After clicking on "Details," a new window will open with detailed system information. Scroll down until you reach the "About" section. Here, you’ll get Ubuntu version installed on your system, which will typically be displayed as something like "Ubuntu 20.04 LTS (Focal Fossa)."

By following these simple steps, you can quickly find out the version of Ubuntu on your system without needing to use the command line.

Don’t forget to check for updates regularly, as staying up-to-date ensures you benefit from the latest features and security improvements.

Ubuntu Release Names List (Ubuntu Versions)

Here is a table listing the various versions of Ubuntu and their corresponding distribution names:

Understanding Ubuntu Release Names: What is my Ubuntu Version?

Ubuntu's versioning and release cycle are designed to strike a balance between stability and offering the latest features to users. Knowing how Ubuntu names its versions and the schedule of its releases can help you make better decisions when choosing which version to install or when to update. This section explains the structure behind Ubuntu's version naming and release planning.

Ubuntu follows a clear naming system for its versions, which includes a version number and a codename. The version number is derived from the year and month of the release. For instance, Ubuntu 20.04 was released in April 2020. The version number is a combination of the year (20) and the month (04), making it straightforward to identify the release date.

Each Ubuntu release also gets a unique codename, consisting of an adjective and an animal name, with both words starting with the same letter and arranged alphabetically. 

For example, "Focal Fossa" refers to Ubuntu 20.04. This fun and memorable naming approach not only adds character to the release but also makes it easier for users to recall and reference specific versions.

System Requirements: Ensuring Compatibility with Ubuntu Versions

It’s essential to understand the system requirements for each Ubuntu version when upgrading or installing the OS. Knowing these requirements helps ensure that your hardware can run Ubuntu smoothly and efficiently. As newer versions are released, system demands often increase. However, a general overview can assist in determining if your system can support the latest version.

General System Requirements for Ubuntu Desktop

Processor: A 2 GHz dual-core processor or higher.

RAM: At least 4 GB of RAM is required, with 8 GB recommended for a more seamless experience.

Hard Drive: You will need 25 GB of free space, but additional storage is advised for personal data and files.

Display: A minimum screen resolution of 1024 x 768.

Graphics Card: A GPU capable of 720p video output; hardware acceleration is supported by compatible GPUs.

Internet Access: Required for software updates and the installation of third-party applications.

Ubuntu 22.04 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish) and Later

For Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and later versions, the hardware requirements have been slightly upgraded to match advancements in software and desktop environments.

Processor: A recent 64-bit dual-core processor is recommended, although the minimum requirement is similar to earlier versions.

RAM: 4 GB is the minimum, with 8 GB or more being optimal for performance.

Hard Drive: 25 GB of free space is the minimum, but using an SSD can greatly improve boot times and overall system responsiveness.

Graphics and Display: 3D acceleration support is required, and a more powerful graphics card is beneficial for tasks like gaming and multimedia.

System Requirements for Ubuntu Server

Ubuntu Server is designed for flexibility, focusing on efficient use of resources for server tasks, and thus has lower hardware requirements than the desktop version.

Processor: A 1 GHz processor is the minimum, though 64-bit processors are preferred for better performance.

RAM: 512 MB is the minimum for a minimal installation, but 2 GB or more is recommended for general server use.

Hard Drive: At least 2.5 GB of free space is needed for installation; additional space is required depending on the server’s role.

Network Interface: An Ethernet adapter is necessary for network connectivity; the exact requirements depend on the specific server configuration.

Checking Compatibility

Before committing to an installation or upgrade, consider testing Ubuntu through a live USB or DVD. This allows you to experience Ubuntu on your hardware without altering your existing setup. You can evaluate the system’s performance and compatibility during this trial run.

Virtualization

If your hardware doesn't meet the requirements, consider running Ubuntu within a virtual machine. This gives you the flexibility to allocate resources based on your host machine's capabilities, providing a way to run Ubuntu without needing to meet the full system requirements.

Moreover, with virtual machines, you have the added benefit of installing different releases or versions of Ubuntu on separate VMs.

For example, you can run Ubuntu 20.04 LTS on one VM, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS on another, and even try out more specialized versions, like Ubuntu Server or Ubuntu for specific applications, all within the same host system. This flexibility is ideal for testing software, managing multiple environments, or simply running different configurations of Ubuntu without needing multiple physical machines.

VMs also provide the ability to easily switch between different Ubuntu versions, making it convenient for development, testing, or learning purposes. You can configure each VM to meet specific requirements or run specific software versions, creating an efficient and isolated setup that suits your needs without affecting the overall performance of your main operating system.

LTS vs. STS Versions: A Quick Ubuntu Release Names Comparison

Ubuntu offers two types of releases: Long Term Support (LTS) and Short Term Support (STS). Each is designed for different user needs, balancing stability with access to the latest features.

Long Term Support (LTS)

LTS releases are focused on stability and long-term use, with five years of support, including security and maintenance updates. They are ideal for businesses, servers, and environments where uptime and reliability are crucial.

Benefits:

• Extended Support: 5 years of security and bug fixes.
• Stability: Thoroughly tested and stable.
• Security: Regular security patches.

Short Term Support (STS)

STS versions are released every six months, with support for nine months. These releases offer the latest software and features, making them great for users who prefer newer technology and are comfortable with frequent updates.

Benefits:

• New Features: Access to the latest Ubuntu updates.
• Frequent Updates: Regular release cycle ensures up-to-date software.
• Testing Grounds: Ideal for developers or early adopters.

Which to Choose?

• LTS: Best for users who need stability and long-term support, such as servers or enterprise environments.
• STS: Suitable for those who prioritize the latest features and are comfortable with more frequent upgrades.

Ubuntu Version Upgrades: A Quick Guide

Upgrading your Ubuntu system ensures you stay up-to-date with the latest features and security updates. Here's a streamlined process for upgrading between versions, including both LTS and STS releases.

Preparation