How To Install Kernel 6.12.16 On Ubuntu, Debian And Derivative Systems

The Linux kernel is the core component of any Linux operating system, managing hardware resources and system processes.

Linux Kernel 6.12.16, released on February 21, 2025, includes several important fixes and enhancements:

Build System Update: Modifies the kbuild system to address a regression introduced by GCC 15, ensuring consistent initialization of union variables..
Networking Improvements: Addresses issues in the ‘batman-adv’ networking protocol, enhancing stability during interface removal and refining throughput metric calculations.

In this guide we will be installing Kernel 6.12.16, which has been released a while go.

Check your current kernel version:

Before proceeding with the installation, verify your current kernel version by running:

uname -r

How to install Kernel 6.12.16 on Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Debian, and derivative systems (amd64/x86_64):

Step 1: Update Your System

Run the following commands to ensure your system is up to date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This will update your package list and upgrade all installed packages to their latest versions.

What Does apt update Do?
This command updates the package list to reflect the latest versions available from your repositories.
What Does apt upgrade Do?
It upgrades all the packages that have new versions available while keeping existing dependencies intact.

Step 2: Download the Kernel 6.12.16 Packages

Download the necessary kernel packages from the official Ubuntu repositories or the kernel website:

wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.16/amd64/linux-headers-6.12.16-061216-generic_6.12.16-061216.202502211353_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.16/amd64/linux-image-unsigned-6.12.16-061216-generic_6.12.16-061216.202502211353_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.16/amd64/linux-modules-6.12.16-061216-generic_6.12.16-061216.202502211353_amd64.deb
wget -c https://kernel.ubuntu.com/mainline/v6.12.16/amd64/linux-headers-6.12.16-061216_6.12.16-061216.202502211353_all.deb

Step 3: Install the New Kernel

Install the downloaded packages using dpkg:

sudo dpkg -i linux-headers-6.12*.deb linux-modules-6.12*.deb linux-image-6.12*.deb

Step 4: Update GRUB and Reboot

Once the kernel installation is complete, update GRUB to ensure the new kernel is recognized:

Regenerate the GRUB ConfigurationRun the following command to update GRUB with the latest installed kernel:

sudo update-grub

Verify GRUB Configuration

To confirm that the new kernel has been detected, check the GRUB configuration:

cat /boot/grub/grub.cfg | grep 'menuentry'

This should list all available kernels, including Kernel 6.12.16.

Reboot the System

Restart your computer to apply the changes:

sudo reboot

Select the New Kernel (if needed)If the system doesn’t automatically boot into the new kernel, you can manually select it:
- Hold Shift or Esc during boot to access the GRUB menu.
- Navigate to Advanced options for Ubuntu.
- Choose the entry with Kernel 6.12.16.
- Press Enter to boot.

Verifying the Installed Kernel

After rebooting, confirm the new kernel version:

uname -r

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 Shift or Esc to enter the GRUB boot menu.
Select Advanced options for Ubuntu – Choose an older kernel version and boot into it.
Remove Kernel 6.12.16 (if desired) – If you prefer to remove the new kernel permanently, run:

sudo apt remove linux-headers-6.12* linux-modules-6.12* linux-image-6.12*
sudo update-grub
sudo reboot

Conclusion

Upgrading to Linux Kernel 6.12.16 offers several notable enhancements that improve system performance and stability. With updates targeting network protocols, particularly the ‘batman-adv’ networking protocol, users can expect better throughput and reliability.

Additionally, the kernel fixes various bugs, addressing issues in the build system that previously affected initialization with GCC 15. These improvements contribute to a more stable and smoother user experience across different use cases.

Moreover, the installation process on Ubuntu is relatively straightforward, and following the steps carefully will ensure that you can enjoy the latest kernel without issues.

From adding the appropriate repository to rebooting your system after installation, the procedure is simple enough for both novice and advanced users alike. With the new kernel installed, you can take full advantage of its latest features and optimizations.

Ultimately, Kernel 6.12.16 is a solid update for those who want to ensure their system runs at peak performance while maintaining compatibility with newer technologies.

As always, it’s a good idea to back up your system and test the new kernel in a controlled environment to avoid potential disruptions in your workflow. By staying up-to-date with the latest kernel releases, you can ensure a more secure and efficient computing experience on Ubuntu.