How to identify the active Kernel on your server

Introduction

It is easy to tell if you are running a distribution kernel. Unless you have downloaded, compiled, and installed your own version of the kernel, you are more than likely running a distribution kernel. This article outlines how you can confirm your active kernel information.

Procedure

To find out the version of your kernel, run the command uname -r:

[root@server ~]# uname -r
4.18.0-553.33.1.lve.el8.x86_64

If you see anything at all after the dash, you are running a distribution kernel. Despite the fact that each distribution offers its own kernel, that does not mean that you are stuck with whatever kernel version your distribution offers. You still can upgrade your kernel version to the most recent version if you wish to. 

Additional Resources

How To Upgrade The Linux Kernel In CentOS?

Does the kernel update automatically?