Linux Mint: Kernel Update - Here's how
If you want to perform a kernel update under Linux Mint, proceed in a similar way to any Linux operating system. However, please note that a kernel update involves risks and should therefore only be carried out if the system does not work properly with the currently installed kernel. We explain the necessary steps for the update.
How to update the kernel on Linux Mint
Note: If you do not know what exactly a kernel is, you should first read our practical tip on the subject.
- System update: Open a terminal window with [Ctrl] + [Alt] + [T] and enter "sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get dist-upgrade -y". Confirm with your password to update Linux Mint to the latest.
- Restart: Then restart with "sudo reboot".
- Kernel version: At kernel.ubuntu.com you will find all available kernel versions. Scroll down to the bottom and select the desired kernel. Attention: Do not select a folder with "* rc *" in the name - this is not yet classified as stable. Apart from the rc kernels, you can download the lowest (= most current) kernel version.
- 32bit / 64bit: In order to download the correct files, you need to know whether you are using Linux Mint in 32bit or 64bit version. You can find out with the terminal command "file / sbin / init".
- Kernel files: In the opened folder, select the following files for download - "linux-headers - * - generic - * _ amd64.deb" and "linux-image - * - generic - * _ amd64.deb" for 64-bit systems or "linux-headers - * - generic - * _ i386.deb" and "linux-image - * - generic - * _ i386.deb" for 32bit systems. In any case, download the "linux-headers - * _ all.deb" file. The picture shows the required files using the example of the 4.4.2 kernel (green = 32bit). Save the files on your computer (e.g. in the Downloads folder).
- Kernel update: To install the new kernel, navigate to the selected folder in the kernel (eg "cd ~ / Downloads"). Now run this command: "sudo dpkg -i linux-headers-4 * .deb linux-image-4 * .deb". Confirm with the [Enter] key and your password.
- Update Grub: Now execute the command "sudo update-grub" in the terminal.
- Restart: Restart your computer ("sudo re
- Done, the terminal command "uname -r" should now output the kernel version you just installed.
Linux Mint: the better Windows 10?
On the next page we will help if you forgot your Linux Mint password.