Category: Linux
A new Linux kernel doesn't make the headlines as much as a new release of Mac OSX, iOS, and of course, Microsoft Windows. But it is darn exciting news for the Linux community especially when they add functionality such as a leaner codebase, new hardware support, or a performance boost. That said, last year's jump to 3.x from 2.x wasn't a huge deal though it was one way to celebrate Linux's anniversary.
Do you have to do something special when a new Linux kernel is released? Not really. If you run your Linux distribution's online updates regularly, you probably aren't missing out. However, some kernel changes are so big that you would need to update your whole Linux distribution and reinstall the whole thing. Like the nice folks over the Linux Kernel Archives mention on their homepage, what you need is a Linux distribution not download a Linux kernel.
Personally, I'm not an early adopter because I'm always satisfied with my Linux distribution's performance and functionality. I don't upgrade to a new Ubuntu or openSUSE release either unless I'm having hardware problems with my current build. I've been carrying the same Knoppix version on my USB for a couple of years now and it hasn't failed me yet. My current version of Clonezilla LiveCD isn't updated either and is still great for backing up.
According to ArsTechnica, the next Linux kernel release is focusing on the ARM platform and possibly touch input support. If you're happy with your nicely set up but aging desktop or laptop running the latest Fedora release, don't worry about it. Run a fresh and clean install of your Linux distribution when you need to. Enjoy your Linux system if you're happy with it. The kernel isn't going anywhere.
To check your Linux kernel version from a Terminal like Konsole or LXTerminal type the command uname -r.
On a KDE system, open the KDE KickOff menu/Application Launcher and click My Computer. Under OS Information, you'll see your current Linux kernel, your Linux distribution release, and KDE version. Now you can impress your friends and say, "I'm running Linux 3.4.5-2.10, what about you?"
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