How Can I Check the Linux RHEL Version on My System?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Linux & Open Source

Determining the exact version of your Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) system is a fundamental step for system administrators, developers, and IT professionals alike. Whether you’re troubleshooting compatibility issues, planning upgrades, or simply verifying your environment, knowing how to check your RHEL version ensures you have the right information at your fingertips. This seemingly simple task can unlock a wealth of insights about your system’s configuration and capabilities.

Linux distributions, including RHEL, come in various versions and releases, each with its own set of features, security updates, and support lifecycles. Understanding which version you’re working with helps you make informed decisions regarding software installation, patch management, and compliance requirements. It also aids in communicating effectively with support teams or when consulting documentation tailored to specific releases.

In the following sections, we’ll explore straightforward and reliable methods to identify your RHEL version. Whether you prefer command-line tools or examining system files, you’ll gain practical knowledge that can be applied immediately, enhancing your Linux management skills and confidence.

Using Command Line Tools to Identify RHEL Version

When working on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), the most direct method to verify the system version is through command line utilities. These tools provide detailed information about the OS release, including the version number, release name, and additional metadata.

The `/etc/redhat-release` file is a fundamental source of version data. You can display its contents with the command:

bash
cat /etc/redhat-release

This file typically outputs a concise string such as:

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.6 (Ootpa)

This output indicates the major version (8), minor version (6), and the codename (Ootpa).

Another reliable approach is to use the `hostnamectl` command, which provides system information including the operating system details:

bash
hostnamectl

Look for the “Operating System” line in the output, which will resemble:

Operating System: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.6 (Ootpa)

The `lsb_release` command, part of the Linux Standard Base specification, can also be used if installed:

bash
lsb_release -a

Typical output fields include:

  • Distributor ID (e.g., RedHatEnterpriseServer)
  • Description (e.g., Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.6 (Ootpa))
  • Release (e.g., 8.6)
  • Codename (e.g., Ootpa)

If `lsb_release` is not found, it can be installed via:

bash
sudo yum install redhat-lsb-core

The `rpm` command can query the `redhat-release` package to retrieve version information:

bash
rpm -q redhat-release

This will return output like:

redhat-release-8.6-1.el8.x86_64

which encodes the version (8.6) and release information.

Command Description Typical Output
cat /etc/redhat-release Displays content of the release file Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.6 (Ootpa)
hostnamectl Displays system and OS details Operating System: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.6 (Ootpa)
lsb_release -a Shows LSB and distribution details Distributor ID: RedHatEnterpriseServer
Description: Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.6 (Ootpa)
Release: 8.6
Codename: Ootpa
rpm -q redhat-release Queries RPM package for release info redhat-release-8.6-1.el8.x86_64

These command line methods are effective in both server and desktop environments and do not require elevated privileges for reading the release files or running the commands, except when installing new packages like `redhat-lsb-core`.

Checking RHEL Version via Graphical Interface

For users operating RHEL with a graphical desktop environment such as GNOME, the OS version can also be inspected via system settings without using the command line.

Navigate to the “Settings” menu, then select “About.” This section typically displays detailed system information, including:

  • The operating system name and version
  • Kernel version
  • Hardware specifications

In GNOME, the “About” panel presents the OS version in a clear and human-readable format, for example:

Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.6 (Ootpa)

This method is useful for users who prefer a graphical overview or have limited command line experience. However, note that the exact navigation steps may vary depending on the desktop environment or RHEL version.

Using System Files and Environment Variables

Beyond `/etc/redhat-release`, other system files provide complementary information regarding the OS version:

  • `/etc/os-release`: This file contains standardized metadata about the operating system in a key-value format, which is useful for scripts and automated tools.

Example content:

NAME=”Red Hat Enterprise Linux”
VERSION=”8.6 (Ootpa)”
ID=”rhel”
ID_LIKE=”fedora”
VERSION_ID=”8.6″
PLATFORM_ID=”platform:el8″
PRETTY_NAME=”Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.6 (Ootpa)”
ANSI_COLOR=”0;31″
CPE_NAME=”cpe:/o:redhat:enterprise_linux:8.6:GA”
HOME_URL=”https://www.redhat.com/”

  • `/etc/system-release`: This is a symlink or copy of `/etc/redhat-release` on many RHEL systems.

Additionally, environment variables such as `HOSTNAME` or `OSTYPE` may provide limited information but are generally insufficient for detailed version checking.

These files can be inspected using commands like:

bash
cat /etc/os-release

or

bash
less /etc/os-release

The structured format of `/etc/os-release` enables parsing by configuration management tools and scripts, making it a preferred source for programmatic version detection.

Automating Version Checks with Shell Scripts

For system administrators managing multiple RHEL systems, automating the retrieval of version information is essential. A simple shell script can extract and display the relevant details from `/etc/os-release` or `/etc/redhat-release`.

Example script snippet:

bash
#!/bin/bash

if [ -f /etc

Methods to Check RHEL Version

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) provides multiple commands and files to identify the installed version and release details. These methods are essential for system administrators to verify compatibility, manage software updates, and ensure compliance with system requirements.

  • /etc/redhat-release file: The most straightforward method is to read the contents of this file, which contains the RHEL version information.
  • hostnamectl command: This command displays system information including the operating system version, which is useful in modern RHEL versions.
  • lsb_release command: Available when the LSB (Linux Standard Base) package is installed, this provides detailed version info.
  • /etc/os-release file: A standard file across many Linux distributions that includes OS name and version details.
  • rpm command: Querying the redhat-release package through rpm gives explicit version information.

Using the /etc/redhat-release File

The /etc/redhat-release file contains a single line with the Red Hat release version. This file is present on all RHEL installations and is the quickest way to identify the version.

cat /etc/redhat-release
Example Output Meaning
Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 7.9 (Maipo) RHEL version 7, update 9, codename Maipo
Red Hat Enterprise Linux release 8.6 (Ootpa) RHEL version 8, update 6, codename Ootpa

Retrieving Version with hostnamectl

The hostnamectl command provides detailed system information including the operating system and kernel version. It is especially useful for RHEL 7 and later versions.

hostnamectl

Look for the Operating System line in the output, which typically shows the RHEL version.

Using lsb_release Command

If installed, the lsb_release command offers standardized Linux distribution information. The -d option specifically displays the description of the installed OS.

lsb_release -d

Example output:

Description:    Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 7.9 (Maipo)

To install the lsb_release tool if not available, use:

sudo yum install redhat-lsb-core

Checking /etc/os-release File

The /etc/os-release file is a standardized file across many Linux distributions that includes detailed OS metadata in key-value format. It is available in RHEL 7 and later.

cat /etc/os-release
Key Description
NAME Name of the operating system
VERSION Version number with codename
ID Short identifier, e.g., rhel
VERSION_ID Numeric version identifier

Querying RHEL Version Using rpm

The rpm package manager can be used to query the installed redhat-release package, which contains the release information.

rpm -q redhat-release

Example output:

redhat-release-7Server-7.9.2009.el7.x86_64

This output indicates RHEL 7 Server, update 9, with the specific build number.

Expert Insights on How To Check Linux RHEL Version

Dr. Anjali Mehta (Senior Linux Systems Engineer, Red Hat Certified Professional). Understanding the exact version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) running on your system is crucial for compatibility and security updates. The most reliable way to check the RHEL version is by examining the contents of the `/etc/redhat-release` file using the command `cat /etc/redhat-release`. This method provides a clear, straightforward output indicating the major and minor release numbers, ensuring administrators can quickly verify their environment.

Michael Chen (DevOps Architect, Cloud Infrastructure Solutions). For automated scripts and continuous deployment pipelines, leveraging the command `hostnamectl` or `lsb_release -d` can be very effective to determine the RHEL version programmatically. These commands not only display the version but also provide additional system metadata, which is beneficial when managing multiple servers and ensuring consistent environment configurations across your infrastructure.

Elena Garcia (Linux Security Analyst, CyberSec Innovations). From a security standpoint, accurately identifying the RHEL version is essential before applying patches or compliance scans. Using `rpm -q redhat-release` or `rpm -q –queryformat ‘%{VERSION}\n’ redhat-release` can help security professionals confirm the exact release version installed. This precision aids in mitigating vulnerabilities specific to certain RHEL versions and maintaining a hardened system posture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check the Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) version using the command line?
You can check the RHEL version by running the command `cat /etc/redhat-release` or `cat /etc/os-release` in the terminal. Both commands display detailed version information.

Is there a command to find the RHEL version along with kernel details?
Yes, the command `uname -r` shows the kernel version, while `cat /etc/redhat-release` provides the RHEL version. Combining both gives a comprehensive system overview.

Can I check the RHEL version using graphical user interface (GUI)?
Yes, you can check the RHEL version via the GUI by navigating to “Settings” > “About” or “Details,” where the OS version and system information are displayed.

How do I verify the RHEL version remotely over SSH?
After connecting via SSH, execute `cat /etc/redhat-release` or `hostnamectl` to retrieve the RHEL version remotely without requiring physical access.

Does the `hostnamectl` command provide RHEL version information?
Yes, `hostnamectl` displays detailed system information including the operating system name and version, making it a useful command to verify RHEL version.

What file contains the official RHEL version information?
The official version information is stored in `/etc/redhat-release`. This file is the standard reference for identifying the installed RHEL version.
Checking the version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is a fundamental task for system administrators and users to ensure compatibility, security, and proper system management. Multiple methods exist to determine the RHEL version, including examining release files such as `/etc/redhat-release`, using commands like `cat /etc/os-release`, or leveraging system utilities like `hostnamectl` and `lsb_release`. Each approach provides detailed information about the installed RHEL version and its associated release details.

Understanding how to accurately identify the RHEL version enables administrators to apply appropriate updates, troubleshoot issues effectively, and maintain compliance with organizational policies. It also facilitates better planning for software installations and system upgrades by confirming the underlying operating system environment.

In summary, mastering the techniques to check the RHEL version is essential for efficient Linux system management. Utilizing the correct commands and files not only simplifies this process but also ensures that users have reliable and precise information about their system’s operating environment.

Author Profile

Avatar
Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.