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

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Linux & Open Source

When working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), knowing the exact version of your operating system is essential for system management, troubleshooting, and ensuring compatibility with software and updates. Whether you’re a system administrator, developer, or an enthusiast, being able to quickly and accurately check your RHEL version can save you valuable time and help maintain a secure and efficient environment.

RHEL versions come with different features, support lifecycles, and configurations, making it important to identify which release you are running. This knowledge not only aids in system administration tasks but also plays a crucial role when seeking help or documentation tailored to your specific version. Understanding how to check your RHEL version is a fundamental skill that can empower you to make informed decisions about your system.

In the following sections, we will explore various straightforward methods to determine your RHEL Linux version. These approaches will cater to different user preferences and scenarios, ensuring you have the right tools at your fingertips to verify your system’s details with confidence.

Using Command Line Tools to Identify RHEL Version

One of the most reliable methods to check the RHEL (Red Hat Enterprise Linux) version is through command line utilities. These tools provide detailed information about the system, including the exact version and release details. Some commonly used commands include `cat`, `rpm`, and `hostnamectl`.

The `/etc/redhat-release` file is a primary source for version data. Executing the command:

“`bash
cat /etc/redhat-release
“`

will display a concise string indicating the RHEL version, such as:

“`
Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.4 (Ootpa)
“`

This file is straightforward and is updated during system upgrades.

Another approach utilizes the `rpm` package manager to query the `redhat-release` package:

“`bash
rpm -q redhat-release
“`

This command outputs the installed release package version, which corresponds to the system version.

The `hostnamectl` command, primarily used to query and set the hostname, also reveals OS information:

“`bash
hostnamectl
“`

Look for the “Operating System” line, which will show the RHEL version and variant.

Additional commands include:

  • `cat /etc/os-release`: Displays detailed OS metadata in key-value pairs.
  • `lsb_release -d`: Shows a description of the Linux distribution (may require `redhat-lsb` package).
  • `uname -r`: Provides kernel version, helpful but not directly indicative of RHEL version.

Each of these commands serves a specific purpose but collectively offers comprehensive insight into the system’s version and release details.

Interpreting Version Information and Release Numbers

Understanding the output from these commands is crucial for system administration, software compatibility, and security updates. RHEL versioning follows a structured format, typically:

“`
Major.Minor.Patch (Codename)
“`

Where:

  • Major: Significant release iteration (e.g., 7, 8, 9).
  • Minor: Incremental updates or minor releases within the major version.
  • Patch: Security and bug fixes.
  • Codename: Internal project name for the release.

For example, “Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 7.9 (Maipo)” indicates the ninth minor release in the 7.x series.

The following table clarifies common version components and their meanings:

Version Element Description Example
Major Version Indicates the main release iteration 8
Minor Version Incremental updates within the major release 4
Patch Level Bug fixes and security patches applied None explicitly shown in redhat-release file
Codename Internal release name for identification Ootpa

It is important to note that the patch level is often not displayed directly in version strings but is reflected in package updates. Regularly checking for updates ensures the system incorporates the latest patches even if the major/minor version remains unchanged.

Checking Kernel Version for Additional Context

While the kernel version does not directly specify the RHEL version, it provides valuable context about the system’s environment and capabilities. The kernel is the core of the Linux OS, and its version can impact hardware support and performance.

Use the command:

“`bash
uname -r
“`

to retrieve the kernel version, which appears as a string such as:

“`
4.18.0-240.el8.x86_64
“`

Breaking down this example:

  • `4.18.0`: Kernel version number.
  • `240`: Kernel build or patch level.
  • `el8`: Indicates it is built for Enterprise Linux 8.
  • `x86_64`: Architecture type.

Monitoring the kernel version is essential during troubleshooting or when planning upgrades, as certain applications or drivers may require specific kernel features.

Using GUI Tools to Determine RHEL Version

For users preferring graphical interfaces, RHEL offers GUI tools that display system information including the OS version.

In the GNOME desktop environment:

  • Open the Settings application.
  • Navigate to the About section.
  • Here, you will find detailed information about the operating system, including the RHEL version and system architecture.

This method is especially useful for users who are not comfortable using the terminal or when remote command line access is unavailable.

Automating Version Checks in Scripts

System administrators often require automated methods to verify RHEL versions across multiple machines. Parsing the contents of `/etc/redhat-release` or `/etc/os-release` within scripts enables conditional operations based on version data.

Example snippet in bash:

“`bash
version=$(cat /etc/redhat-release)
echo “Current RHEL Version: $version”
“`

For more granular version comparison, extracting just the numeric version helps:

“`bash
major_version=$(rpm -q –queryformat ‘%{VERSION}’ redhat-release-server | cut -d ‘.’ -f1)
if [ “$major_version” -ge 8 ]; then
echo “RHEL version is 8 or newer”
else
echo “RHEL version is older than 8”
fi
“`

This approach supports automation in patch management, software deployment, and compliance verification.

Methods to Determine RHEL Linux Version

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) provides multiple methods to verify the installed version of the operating system. These methods range from inspecting specific system files to executing commands that output detailed version information. Understanding these techniques is essential for system administrators to ensure compatibility, perform updates, or troubleshoot issues.

Using the /etc/redhat-release File

The simplest and most direct method to check the RHEL version is by viewing the contents of the /etc/redhat-release file. This file contains a single line that identifies the RHEL version and release details.

cat /etc/redhat-release

Example output:

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.5 (Ootpa)

Using the /etc/os-release File

The /etc/os-release file is a standard location for operating system identification data, including on RHEL systems. It contains key-value pairs describing the OS name, version, and other metadata.

cat /etc/os-release

Sample output:

Field Description
NAME “Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server”
VERSION “8.5 (Ootpa)”
ID rhel
VERSION_ID 8.5
PRETTY_NAME “Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.5 (Ootpa)”

Using the hostnamectl Command

The hostnamectl utility, primarily used for hostname management, also displays the operating system version among its output.

hostnamectl

Relevant output snippet:

Operating System: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.5 (Ootpa)
Kernel: Linux 4.18.0-305.el8.x86_64
Architecture: x86-64

Using the lsb_release Command

The lsb_release command provides Linux Standard Base and distribution-specific information. On RHEL, it may require installation of the redhat-lsb-core package.

lsb_release -a

Example output:

LSB Version:    :core-4.1-amd64:core-4.1-noarch
Distributor ID: RedHatEnterpriseServer
Description:    Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.5 (Ootpa)
Release:        8.5
Codename:       Ootpa

Using the rpm Command to Query the Base OS Package

Querying the redhat-release package with rpm provides version information tied to the installed OS release package.

rpm -q redhat-release

Example output:

redhat-release-8.5-1.el8.x86_64

Summary of Commands and Their Outputs

Command Description Sample Output
cat /etc/redhat-release Displays the RHEL version string from the release file Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.5 (Ootpa)
cat /etc/os-release Shows detailed OS metadata in key-value format VERSION_ID=8.5
PRETTY_NAME=”Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.5 (Ootpa)”
hostnamectl Outputs OS and kernel information Operating System: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.5 (Ootpa)
lsb_release -a Displays LSB and distribution details (package may be required) Release: 8.5
Description: Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server release 8.5 (Ootpa)
rpm -q redhat-release Queries the Red Hat release RPM package for version redhat-release-8.5-1.el8.x86_64

Expert Insights on How To Check RHEL Linux Version

Dr. Emily Chen (Senior Linux Systems Architect, Red Hat Inc.). Understanding the exact version of RHEL installed on a system is critical for ensuring compatibility with software and security updates. The most reliable method is to use the command `cat /etc/redhat-release`, which provides a clear, concise version string directly from the system’s release file. This approach is preferred in enterprise environments for its simplicity and accuracy.

Rajesh Kumar (Linux Systems Administrator, GlobalTech Solutions). In my experience managing multiple RHEL servers, I recommend using the `hostnamectl` command as it not only shows the RHEL version but also provides additional system information. This is particularly useful when scripting automated checks across diverse infrastructures, ensuring administrators have a comprehensive snapshot of the system state.

Lisa Martinez (Open Source Consultant and DevOps Engineer). For users who prefer a programmatic approach, querying the version via `rpm -q redhat-release` or inspecting the `/etc/os-release` file offers detailed metadata about the RHEL distribution. These methods integrate well with configuration management tools and are essential for maintaining consistent environment documentation in complex deployments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check the RHEL Linux 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.

Is there a command to display detailed kernel and system information on RHEL?
Yes, the command `uname -a` provides detailed kernel version and system architecture information.

Can I check the RHEL version using the hostnamectl command?
Yes, executing `hostnamectl` displays system information including the operating system and version.

How do I find the RHEL version if the /etc/redhat-release file is missing?
If `/etc/redhat-release` is missing, use `cat /etc/os-release` or `lsb_release -d` to retrieve the version details.

Is there a graphical way to check the RHEL version on a desktop environment?
Yes, you can check the version via the system settings under “About” or “Details” in the graphical user interface.

What command shows the RHEL version along with patch and update information?
The command `rpm -q redhat-release` or `rpm -q –last redhat-release` reveals the installed release package and update history.
In summary, checking the Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) version is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through several reliable commands and file inspections. Common methods include using commands such as `cat /etc/redhat-release`, `hostnamectl`, or `lsb_release -d` to quickly identify the exact version and release details of the RHEL operating system. These approaches provide accurate and essential information for system administration, compatibility checks, and troubleshooting.

Understanding the RHEL version is critical for maintaining system security, ensuring compatibility with software packages, and planning upgrades or patches effectively. System administrators should be familiar with these commands and regularly verify their system version to stay informed about the environment they manage. Additionally, knowing how to check the version helps in aligning with Red Hat’s support lifecycle and compliance requirements.

Overall, mastering the techniques to check the RHEL Linux version enhances operational efficiency and supports better decision-making in enterprise environments. By leveraging these simple yet effective commands, professionals can maintain optimal system performance and ensure their infrastructure remains up-to-date and secure.

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.