The Linux kernel is the core component of any Linux operating system, managing hardware resources and system processes. Kernel 6.12.3 brings important updates, security patches, and performance improvements that can enhance system stability and compatibility with newer hardware.
Benefits of Upgrading to Kernel 6.12.3
- Networking Improvements: Faster and more stable network performance with updated drivers.
- Improved Hardware Support: Enhanced compatibility with newer GPUs, CPUs, and peripherals.
- Performance Enhancements: Optimized memory management and scheduling for faster system response.
- Security Fixes: Patches for vulnerabilities that improve overall system security.
- Better Filesystem Performance: Updates for ext4, Btrfs, and XFS filesystems.
In this guide we will be installing Kernel 6.12.3, which has been released a while go, being announced by GregKH on the 6th of December.
Check your current kernel version:
Before proceeding with the installation, verify your current kernel version by running:
uname -rThis will display the kernel version currently in use.
How to install Kernel 6.12.3 on Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian and Derivative systems (amd64/x86_64):
Step 1: Update Your System
The apt update && apt upgrade command is essential for package management in Ubuntu and other Debian-based Linux distributions. It ensures that your system has the latest software updates and security patches, preventing compatibility issues and vulnerabilities. The && operator allows both commands to run in sequence, meaning apt upgrade executes only if apt update completes successfully.
What Does apt update Do?
The apt update command refreshes the list of available packages. It does not download or install updates but instead queries the configured repositories to fetch the latest package versions. Running this command ensures that the system is aware of the newest software versions before installation or updates.
What Does apt upgrade Do?
The apt upgrade command installs the latest available versions of the installed packages. It updates software while keeping dependencies intact, ensuring a smooth upgrade process. However, it does not remove or install new packages. If an update requires changes that involve removing or replacing packages, apt full-upgrade may be needed.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yStep 2: Download the Kernel 6.12.3 Packages
Download the necessary kernel packages from the official Ubuntu repositories or the kernel website:
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.3/amd64/linux-headers-6.12.3-061203-generic_6.12.3-061203.202412060638_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.3/amd64/linux-image-unsigned-6.12.3-061203-generic_6.12.3-061203.202412060638_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.3/amd64/linux-modules-6.12.3-061203-generic_6.12.3-061203.202412060638_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.3/amd64/linux-headers-6.12.3-061203_6.12.3-061203.202412060638_all.debStep 3: Install the New Kernel
Use dpkg to install the downloaded packages:
sudo dpkg -i linux-headers-6.12.3-*.deb linux-modules-6.12.3-*.deb linux-image-6.12.3-*.debStep 4: Update GRUB and Reboot
Once the kernel installation is complete, update GRUB to ensure the new kernel is recognized:
Regenerate the GRUB Configuration
Run the following command to update GRUB with the latest installed kernel:
sudo update-grubThis scans the system for installed kernels and updates the GRUB bootloader menu accordingly.
Verify GRUB Configuration
To confirm that the new kernel has been detected, you can check the GRUB configuration file:
cat /boot/grub/grub.cfg | grep 'menuentry'This should list all available kernels, including Kernel 6.12.3.
Reboot the System
Restart your computer to apply the changes:
sudo rebootSelect the New Kernel (if needed)
In some cases, GRUB may not automatically boot into the new kernel. If you need to manually select it:
- Hold
ShiftorEscduring boot to access the GRUB menu. - Navigate to Advanced options for Ubuntu.
- Choose the entry with Kernel 6.12.3.
- Press
Enterto boot.
Verifying the Installed Kernel
After rebooting, confirm the new kernel version:
uname -rIf it displays 6.12.3, the installation was successful.
Rolling Back to a Previous Kernel
If you encounter issues with the new kernel, you can revert to an older version:
- Reboot and Access the GRUB Menu
- Restart your system and hold
ShiftorEscto enter the GRUB boot menu. - Select Advanced options for Ubuntu.
- Choose an older kernel version and boot into it.
- Restart your system and hold
- Remove Kernel 6.12.3 If you prefer to remove the new kernel permanently, run:
sudo apt remove linux-headers-6.12.3-* linux-modules-6.12.3-* linux-image-6.12.3-*
sudo update-grub
sudo rebootConclusion
Upgrading to Kernel 6.12.3 can enhance your Ubuntu system with better performance, security updates, and hardware support. However, always ensure compatibility before upgrading and keep a previous kernel available in case you need to roll back. Happy computing!
