What Linux OS Am I Running? Easy Ways to Identify Your Linux Distribution

If you’re using Linux and wondering “What Linux OS am I running?”, you’re not alone. Because Linux comes in many distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Arch, etc.), identifying your exact OS version is essential for installing software, troubleshooting issues, or following tutorials accurately.

This guide explains multiple simple and advanced methods to determine your Linux distribution, version, kernel, and desktop environment—whether you prefer the command line or a graphical interface.

Why Knowing Your Linux OS Matters

Identifying your Linux OS helps you:

• Install the correct software packages
• Follow distro-specific documentation
• Troubleshoot system issues accurately
• Check compatibility with applications and drivers
• Receive proper updates and security patches

Different Linux distributions use different package managers, configurations, and release cycles, so this information is critical.

Method 1: Check Linux OS Using the Terminal (Recommended)

The fastest and most reliable way to identify your Linux OS is through the terminal.

Use /etc/os-release

Open the terminal and run:

cat /etc/os-release

This command displays detailed OS information, including:

• Distribution name
• Version number
• Codename

Example output:

NAME="Ubuntu"
VERSION="22.04.3 LTS (Jammy Jellyfish)"
ID=ubuntu

This method works on almost all modern Linux distributions.

Method 2: Use lsb_release Command

If your system supports it, run:

lsb_release -a

This provides a clean summary of your Linux OS, including distributor ID and release version.

If the command isn’t found, install it using your package manager (e.g., lsb-release package).

Method 3: Identify Linux Kernel Version

Your Linux distribution and Linux kernel are not the same. To check the kernel version:

uname -r

To see complete system details:

uname -a

This is useful for debugging hardware or driver compatibility issues.

Method 4: Check OS Details Using Hostnamectl

On systems using systemd:

hostnamectl

This command displays:

• Operating system name
• Kernel version
• System architecture

It’s a quick all-in-one overview.

Method 5: Find Linux OS Without Terminal (GUI Method)

If you prefer a graphical interface:

1. Open Settings
2. Navigate to About or System Information
3. Look for Operating System or OS Version

This method is common in desktop environments like GNOME, KDE Plasma, and XFCE, though the exact location may vary.

Method 6: Check Desktop Environment

Your desktop environment is separate from your Linux OS. To check it:

echo $XDG_CURRENT_DESKTOP

Or:

echo $DESKTOP_SESSION

Examples:

• GNOME
• KDE
• XFCE
• Cinnamon
• MATE

Method 7: Identify Linux Distribution via Release Files

Some distros store additional release files:

cat /etc/*release

This command checks all available release files and outputs relevant OS information.

Common Linux Distributions You Might Be Running

Difference Between Linux OS and Linux Kernel

Many users confuse the two:

• Linux Kernel – Core system component that manages hardware
• Linux OS (Distribution) – Kernel + software, tools, desktop, package manager

Example:

Ubuntu 22.04 uses Linux kernel 6.x (kernel may vary by updates)

Troubleshooting: Command Not Found?

If a command doesn’t work:

• Ensure the package is installed
• Use /etc/os-release as the universal fallback
• Check permissions

Almost every Linux system supports at least one method listed above.

FAQs

What is the easiest way to know my Linux OS?

Running cat /etc/os-release is the easiest and most reliable method.

Can I check my Linux OS without terminal?

Yes. Use Settings → About in your desktop environment.

Does kernel version tell my Linux distro?

No. Kernel version shows system core details, not the distribution name.

Is Ubuntu the same as Linux?

Ubuntu is a Linux distribution, not Linux itself.

Conclusion: Identify Your Linux OS in Seconds

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, knowing what Linux OS you’re running is essential. With just one command—or a few clicks—you can quickly identify your distribution, version, kernel, and desktop environment.

This knowledge ensures you follow the right guides, install compatible software, and manage your system effectively.