What is a ZIP File?

A ZIP file is a compressed archive that contains one or more files or folders. It uses compression techniques to reduce the file size, making it easier to store and share. ZIP files are commonly used in various environments to bundle files, especially for sharing large files over email or the web.

On Ubuntu, you can easily extract ZIP files without needing third-party software. Ubuntu comes with built-in tools to handle ZIP archives.

Extracting a ZIP File Using the GUI

If you prefer using a graphical interface, Ubuntu provides an easy way to extract ZIP files through the default file manager, Nautilus. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the ZIP File: Open the file manager and navigate to the folder containing the ZIP file.
2. Right-click the ZIP File: Right-click on the ZIP file to open the context menu.
3. Click “Extract Here”: In the context menu, you’ll see an option called “Extract Here.” Select this option to extract the contents of the ZIP file into the current directory. Alternatively, you can select “Extract to” to choose a different location for the extracted files.
4. Access the Extracted Files: Once the extraction is complete, you can access the files in the same directory or the location you chose during extraction.

That’s it! Using the GUI to extract ZIP files is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for users who prefer not to work with terminal commands.

Extracting a ZIP File Using the Terminal

For more advanced users or those who prefer the terminal, Ubuntu provides a command-line tool called unzip</> that you can use to extract ZIP files. Here’s how to extract a ZIP file using the terminal:

1. Open the Terminal: Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal.
2. Navigate to the ZIP File Location: Use the cd command to change the directory to where your ZIP file is located. For example, if your file is in the Downloads folder, run:

   cd ~/Downloads

3. Install the unzip Tool (if not installed): Ubuntu usually comes with the unzip tool pre-installed. If it’s not installed, you can install it by running the following command:

   sudo apt install unzip

4. Extract the ZIP File: To extract the ZIP file, run the following command:

   unzip filename.zip

   Replace filename.zip with the name of your ZIP file. This will extract the contents to the current directory.

5. Extract ZIP File to a Specific Directory: If you want to extract the contents of the ZIP file to a specific folder, you can use the -d option followed by the directory path:

   unzip filename.zip -d /path/to/directory/

   This will extract the files into the specified directory.

Using the terminal gives you more control over the extraction process, especially if you want to extract ZIP files in different directories or automate the task.

Common Options for the unzip Command

The unzip command also comes with several useful options for extracting ZIP files:

• -l: List the contents of a ZIP file without extracting it. Example:

  unzip -l filename.zip

• -v: Verbose output that provides more details during extraction. Example:

  unzip -v filename.zip

• -o: Overwrite existing files without prompting. This is useful if you want to automatically overwrite files without confirmation. Example:

  unzip -o filename.zip

• -j: Junk (discard) paths. This extracts files without their directory structure. Example:

  unzip -j filename.zip

These options can be combined as needed. For example, to extract the contents of a ZIP file with verbose output and overwrite existing files, use the following command:

unzip -v -o filename.zip

How to Extract Password-Protected ZIP Files

In some cases, ZIP files may be encrypted and require a password to extract. You can extract a password-protected ZIP file in Ubuntu by using the unzip command with the -P option followed by the password:

unzip -P yourpassword filename.zip

However, be aware that storing the password in plain text on the command line can be a security risk. It’s better to avoid using this method on public or shared systems.

Conclusion

Extracting ZIP files on Ubuntu is an easy task, whether you prefer using the graphical user interface or the terminal. Both methods are quick and efficient, and you can choose the one that best suits your workflow. While the GUI method is perfect for users who prefer simplicity, the terminal method offers more advanced options for power users. Regardless of which method you choose, Ubuntu provides a seamless experience for handling compressed files.

By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can easily unzip files, explore their contents, and extract them to any directory you need. Happy file managing!

What is ARM Architecture?

ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) is a family of reduced instruction set computing (RISC) architectures. ARM CPUs are known for their efficiency, lower power consumption, and cost-effectiveness, making them ideal for mobile devices, embedded systems, and other energy-conscious applications. ARM processors are used in a wide range of devices, including:

• Smartphones (e.g., Apple iPhones, Android phones)
• Tablets
• Raspberry Pi and similar single-board computers
• Smart TVs and set-top boxes
• Networking devices

Because of these characteristics, ARM processors are increasingly popular for personal computers and server systems as well. Many ARM-based systems are designed to be energy-efficient and cost-effective without compromising too much on performance.

Benefits of Using Ubuntu on ARM CPUs

Running Ubuntu on an ARM processor has several distinct advantages, particularly for mobile and embedded systems. Some key benefits include:

• Energy Efficiency: ARM CPUs consume significantly less power than traditional x86 processors. This makes them ideal for mobile and battery-operated devices, where power consumption is crucial.
• Lower Cost: ARM processors are generally less expensive than x86 CPUs. This makes ARM-based devices affordable for individuals and businesses looking for cost-effective computing solutions.
• Compact Form Factor: ARM CPUs are typically smaller in size, which makes them suitable for compact devices such as Raspberry Pi or single-board computers.
• Optimized for Embedded Systems: Many ARM processors are designed specifically for embedded applications. This makes Ubuntu on ARM a great choice for running lightweight, efficient systems in a wide range of applications, from IoT (Internet of Things) devices to network equipment.

Whether you’re using a Raspberry Pi, an ARM-based laptop, or a server running ARM CPUs, Ubuntu provides a full-fledged Linux experience with a user-friendly interface and extensive software support.

Can You Install Ubuntu on ARM-Based Devices?

Yes, you can install Ubuntu on ARM-based devices, and the process is fairly straightforward, thanks to Ubuntu’s official ARM support. Ubuntu provides images for various ARM devices, including Raspberry Pi, ARM-based servers, and other single-board computers.

Ubuntu has been actively supporting ARM architecture, especially for smaller devices and embedded systems. Here are some examples of popular ARM devices that you can run Ubuntu on:

• Raspberry Pi: One of the most famous ARM-based single-board computers. Ubuntu provides a special version for Raspberry Pi, allowing users to run a full Ubuntu desktop or server environment.
• Odroid: Another single-board computer that runs on ARM, supported by Ubuntu. These devices are popular in embedded and DIY projects.
• ARM-based Laptops: Some laptops, like those from Pine64, run ARM-based processors. Ubuntu can be installed on these systems, providing a familiar desktop environment.
• ARM Servers: ARM servers are becoming more common, especially for cloud computing, where ARM CPUs offer excellent energy efficiency and scalability.

The Ubuntu website provides specific images for different ARM boards, making it easy for users to download the right version and begin installation.

Installing Ubuntu on ARM-based Devices

The installation process for Ubuntu on ARM devices is similar to installing it on traditional PCs. Here’s a basic overview of the installation process:

1. Download the Ubuntu ARM Image: Visit the Ubuntu website and download the appropriate ARM image for your device. You’ll find images for various ARM devices, such as the Raspberry Pi, Pine64, and others.
2. Prepare the Installation Media: Once the image is downloaded, use a tool like Raspberry Pi Imager, dd, or Etcher to write the image to an SD card or USB drive (depending on the device).
3. Boot the Device: Insert the SD card or USB drive into your ARM device, and boot it up. The device should automatically recognize the Ubuntu image and begin the installation process.
4. Follow the Installation Wizard: The Ubuntu installation process on ARM devices is similar to other platforms. You’ll be prompted to choose your language, time zone, keyboard layout, and partitioning options. After that, Ubuntu will install on the device.
5. Set Up Your System: After the installation is complete, you can log in and begin configuring your system, installing software, and enjoying Ubuntu’s robust set of features.

For Raspberry Pi users, there’s a special version of Ubuntu called Ubuntu MATE or Ubuntu Server, which is optimized for the ARM architecture. These versions provide a lightweight and responsive experience on lower-powered devices.

Common Issues When Running Ubuntu on ARM

While Ubuntu runs well on many ARM-based devices, there are some common issues you may encounter:

• Hardware Support: Not all ARM devices have full support for all Ubuntu features. Make sure that your device’s hardware is compatible with Ubuntu, especially when it comes to drivers for Wi-Fi, graphics, and sound.
• Performance: Although ARM CPUs are energy-efficient, they are often not as powerful as their x86 counterparts. This may affect performance for more demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
• Software Availability: While Ubuntu on ARM supports most applications, some desktop applications and games may not have ARM versions. However, with growing support, many software developers are now releasing ARM-compatible versions of their applications.

Despite these challenges, the ARM architecture’s benefits far outweigh the issues for many users, especially for energy-efficient devices and specialized use cases like embedded systems.

Conclusion

Running Ubuntu on ARM CPUs is a great way to take advantage of the power-efficient, cost-effective nature of ARM processors. Whether you’re using a Raspberry Pi, ARM-based laptop, or server, Ubuntu offers a fully-featured, user-friendly operating system that can meet your computing needs. While some challenges may arise, such as hardware compatibility and performance limitations, the benefits of using Ubuntu on ARM far exceed the drawbacks for most use cases.

If you’re looking to explore ARM-based computing or develop on a low-power device, Ubuntu is a fantastic choice. With its wide range of supported devices and active community, Ubuntu on ARM provides a reliable, open-source solution for a variety of tasks and projects.

What is the Root Account in Ubuntu?

In Linux-based systems, the root account is the system administrator account. It has unrestricted access to all files and commands on the system. With root privileges, users can install software, modify system files, manage other users, and perform other administrative tasks. However, giving a user direct root access can be risky if not managed properly, which is why many modern Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, use alternative methods to handle administrative tasks.

Why Doesn’t Ubuntu Have a Default Root Password?

Unlike many other Linux distributions that enable the root account during installation, Ubuntu has a unique approach. Ubuntu disables the root account by default and relies on sudo to grant administrative privileges. This design choice aims to improve security and make it less likely for users to accidentally make critical system changes with root access.

By using sudo, Ubuntu allows users to run administrative commands without logging in as root. This also helps track administrative actions since every command executed with sudo is logged, providing an additional layer of transparency and security.

How Does the sudo Command Work in Ubuntu?

In Ubuntu, rather than using a traditional root password, users can run administrative tasks with the sudo command. When you execute a command with sudo, the system will prompt you to enter your own user password (not the root password) to confirm your identity. If the user is part of the sudo group, they can execute administrative commands.

For example, to update your system, you would run the following command:

sudo apt update

Upon entering your user password, the system will proceed with the update.

How to Enable the Root Account in Ubuntu?

Although Ubuntu does not set a root password by default, you can enable the root account if necessary. Some advanced system administration tasks might require root access, and you can enable the root account using the following steps:

• • Open a terminal window.
  • Type the following command to set a root password:

sudo passwd root

• You will be prompted to enter your current user password for verification.
• Once authenticated, you will be asked to enter a new password for the root user. Type the desired root password and confirm it when prompted.
• The root account will now be enabled with the password you set.

After completing these steps, you will be able to log in as the root user by typing su (Switch User) and entering the root password:

su

Note: Enabling the root account is not recommended for everyday use, as it exposes the system to higher security risks. It’s generally safer to use sudo for administrative tasks and keep the root account disabled.

How to Disable the Root Account in Ubuntu?

If you’ve enabled the root account for some reason and now want to disable it, you can do so easily. Disabling the root account restores Ubuntu’s default behavior of relying solely on sudo for administrative tasks. To disable the root account, follow these steps:

• • Open a terminal.
  • Use the following command to lock the root account:

sudo passwd -l root

• This will lock the root account, effectively disabling direct login as root.

Once the root account is locked, you will no longer be able to switch to root with the su command. You can still use sudo for administrative tasks.

Conclusion

In summary, Ubuntu does not assign a default root password because it uses sudo to manage administrative tasks. This approach improves system security by encouraging users to perform administrative tasks with their own user credentials, rather than giving them unrestricted root access. While it’s possible to enable and disable the root account, it’s generally not recommended for everyday use. By following best practices and using sudo, you can ensure your Ubuntu system remains secure while performing administrative tasks.

1. Using the cat Command

One of the easiest ways to list users on Ubuntu is by checking the /etc/passwd file. This file contains basic information about each user, including usernames, home directories, and default shells. To list all users in Ubuntu using the cat command:

cat /etc/passwd

This will show all the details, but you might not want the extra information. The first field in each line represents the username, and the rest of the information is separated by colons. It might look something like this:

root:x:0:0:root:/root:/bin/bash

Here, “root” is the username. Each entry represents a different user account.

2. Using the cut Command

If you’re only interested in listing the usernames and not the full details, you can filter the output using the cut command. The cut command can extract specific fields from the /etc/passwd file, in this case, the usernames:

cut -d: -f1 /etc/passwd

This command will display only the usernames, without any additional information. For example, the output might look like:

root
user1
user2
...

This method is clean and quick if you need just the list of usernames.

3. Using the getent Command

Another reliable command to list users is getent. The getent command fetches entries from system databases, including user information from /etc/passwd as well as from external sources like LDAP if configured. To list users with getent, run:

getent passwd

Similar to the cat /etc/passwd command, this will output detailed information for each user. But unlike cat, getent will also show users from any external sources configured on your system. The output will look something like:

root:x:0:0:root:/root:/bin/bash
user1:x:1001:1001:User One:/home/user1:/bin/bash

4. Using the compgen Command

If you want to see all users (including system users), you can use the compgen command with the -u flag. The compgen command generates a list of all users on your system, whether they are regular users or system accounts:

compgen -u

This will list all the usernames in the system, including the system users, and will look something like this:

root
user1
user2
sys
daemon
...

While this is helpful to see every account on the system, it can also include system users that may not be of interest if you’re looking for regular human users.

5. Using the users Command

If you’re only interested in seeing which users are currently logged in, you can use the users command. This command will return a list of usernames for all users currently logged into the system:

users

For example, if two users are logged in, the output will look something like:

user1 user2

This method is useful when you need to know who is currently using the system, but it doesn’t show all users, only the active ones.

6. Using the w Command

For a more detailed view of the currently logged-in users, including their IP address, the terminal they’re using, and their activity, you can use the w command. This provides more detailed information compared to users:

w

The output will show who is logged in, where they are logged in from, and what they are doing, for example:

 09:30:01 up 2 days,  3:15,  2 users,  load average: 0.05, 0.01, 0.02
USER     TTY      FROM             LOGIN@   IDLE   JCPU   PCPU WHAT
user1    pts/0    192.168.0.5     09:00    2.00s  0.10s  0.10s -bash
user2    pts/1    192.168.0.6     09:15    1.00s  0.05s  0.05s -bash

This is useful if you want to check the activities of users on your system.

Conclusion

Listing users in Ubuntu can be done in many ways, depending on what information you’re looking for. Whether you need a simple list of usernames or a detailed view of currently logged-in users, Ubuntu provides a variety of commands to help. The most commonly used commands are cat, cut, getent, compgen, users, and w. Choose the one that best suits your needs.

Method 1: Install Ubuntu Touch

Ubuntu Touch is a mobile version of Ubuntu that offers a completely different experience from Android or iOS. Developed and maintained by the UBports community, Ubuntu Touch is an open-source operating system designed to run on mobile devices. It provides access to the full power of Linux with a mobile interface, and the installation process is relatively straightforward. Ubuntu Touch is ideal for users who want to replace their existing mobile OS with a Linux-powered alternative.

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

Not all devices are compatible with Ubuntu Touch. Before proceeding, you need to check whether your phone is supported. Some popular devices that work well with Ubuntu Touch include:

• Fairphone 2
• OnePlus 5
• Google Nexus 5
• Xiaomi Mi 4

You can check the full list of supported devices on the official UBports website: UBports Devices.

Step 2: Install UBports Installer

The easiest way to install Ubuntu Touch is by using the UBports Installer, a tool developed by the UBports community to make the installation process simple for everyone. Here’s how you can get it:

• Go to the UBports website and download the installer for your operating system (Linux, Windows, or macOS).
• Follow the installation instructions provided on the website. The process is straightforward and will guide you through setting up the UBports Installer.

Step 3: Flash Ubuntu Touch onto Your Phone

After installing the UBports Installer, you’ll need to connect your phone to your computer via USB. Once connected, open the UBports Installer and follow these steps:

• Launch the UBports Installer and select your device from the list of supported devices.
• The installer will prompt you to back up any data on your phone, as the installation process will erase all data from your device.
• Once you’re ready, click “Install” and the installer will begin flashing Ubuntu Touch onto your device. This process usually takes 10-30 minutes depending on your phone and system.

Step 4: Boot Into Ubuntu Touch

Once the installation is complete, the installer will instruct you to reboot your device. When the phone restarts, it will boot into Ubuntu Touch. You will be greeted by the Ubuntu Touch interface, where you can start using your new Linux mobile OS.

Method 2: Install Ubuntu in a Chroot or Container on Android

If you don’t want to completely replace Android with Ubuntu, you can run Ubuntu inside a chroot (an isolated environment) or a container. This method allows you to use Ubuntu and its software alongside your existing Android OS. It’s an excellent option if you still need to use Android apps but want access to Ubuntu’s command-line tools or a desktop environment.

Step 1: Install Termux (Terminal Emulator)

The first step is to install a terminal emulator on your Android phone. Termux is one of the most popular options for this:

• Go to the Google Play Store and search for Termux.
• Install the app and open it. This will give you access to a Linux-like environment on your Android phone.

Step 2: Install Ubuntu Using Proot

Termux can be used to create a Linux environment on your Android device. To install Ubuntu, follow these steps:

pkg update
pkg install proot-distro
proot-distro install ubuntu
proot-distro login ubuntu

This will download and install the Ubuntu distribution in a containerized environment. After the installation is complete, you’ll be able to access Ubuntu’s command line directly from Termux.

Step 3: Install a Desktop Environment (Optional)

If you want to run a graphical desktop environment (like the one you’d find on a regular PC), you can install a lightweight desktop environment such as XFCE or LXDE. For example, to install XFCE:

apt update
apt install xfce4
startxfce4

This will launch the XFCE desktop environment. Keep in mind that performance may vary depending on your phone’s specs and the complexity of the desktop environment you choose to run.

Method 3: Using UserLAnd (for Android Devices)

UserLAnd is another app that lets you run a Linux distribution (like Ubuntu) on your Android device without requiring root access. Unlike other methods, UserLAnd creates a container that isolates the Linux environment from Android, allowing you to run a Linux distro side-by-side with your Android apps.

Step 1: Install UserLAnd from Google Play Store

First, go to the Google Play Store and install the UserLAnd app.

Step 2: Set Up Ubuntu

Open the UserLAnd app and select Ubuntu from the list of available distributions. You will need to provide a username and password for your Linux system. Once the setup is complete, the app will begin downloading Ubuntu.

Step 3: Access Ubuntu

After the installation is complete, you can access Ubuntu using SSH or VNC. To launch a VNC session (for a graphical interface), you’ll need to install a VNC viewer on your phone. For SSH access, you can use a terminal emulator like Termux or connect from another computer via an SSH client.

Conclusion

Running Ubuntu on your phone opens up new possibilities, whether you’re using Ubuntu Touch for a mobile-optimized experience, installing a full desktop environment on Android, or using a container or chroot method to run Ubuntu alongside your Android apps. Each method has its pros and cons, but all of them offer a way to experience the power of Ubuntu on a portable device. Whether you’re a developer, a tech enthusiast, or someone who wants to explore Linux on their mobile device, Ubuntu on your phone can be an exciting project!

Why Install Debian on Ubuntu?

Debian and Ubuntu share many similarities, as Ubuntu is derived from Debian. However, Debian is known for its stability and is often used as a base for many other distributions. Installing Debian on an Ubuntu system might be a good choice if you want:

• Stability: Debian is well-known for its stability and long-term support, making it a great choice for servers or reliable work environments.
• Learning Experience: Debian gives you more control over your system and a more minimalist approach than Ubuntu.
• Dual-Boot Setup: If you need both Ubuntu and Debian on the same machine for different purposes, dual booting might be a suitable solution.

Method 1: Dual Boot Ubuntu and Debian

Setting up a dual-boot system with Ubuntu and Debian is relatively simple, and it allows you to choose between the two operating systems when you start your computer.

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before proceeding, ensure you back up all important files to avoid any loss of data during installation.

Step 2: Create a Partition for Debian

To install Debian alongside Ubuntu, you need to create a new partition for Debian. You can use the Ubuntu Disk Utility tool or GParted to shrink your current partition and create space for Debian.

Step 3: Download Debian ISO

Download the latest stable version of Debian from the official website: Debian Downloads.

Step 4: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Use a tool like Etcher or Rufus (for Windows) to create a bootable USB drive from the Debian ISO.

Step 5: Boot from the USB Drive

Insert the USB drive and reboot your system. Enter the boot menu (usually by pressing F12 or Esc) and select the USB drive to boot from.

Step 6: Install Debian

Once Debian boots up, follow the on-screen instructions to install Debian on the partition you created earlier. During installation, make sure to select the partition that you prepared for Debian.

Step 7: Configure GRUB

After installing Debian, the system will detect both Ubuntu and Debian installations. The GRUB bootloader will allow you to select the OS to boot into. Make sure to install GRUB when prompted.

Step 8: Reboot and Choose Your OS

After the installation finishes, reboot your computer. You should now see the GRUB menu, which lets you choose between Ubuntu and Debian.

Method 2: Install Debian Using VirtualBox

If you prefer not to dual-boot, you can run Debian inside a virtual machine using VirtualBox. This is a great way to test Debian without affecting your current Ubuntu installation.

Step 1: Install VirtualBox

If you don’t already have VirtualBox installed, you can install it using the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install virtualbox

Step 2: Download Debian ISO

As in the dual-boot method, download the latest stable Debian ISO from the official website.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

Open VirtualBox and create a new virtual machine. Select “Linux” and then “Debian” as the operating system. Assign memory and disk space based on your system’s resources and the needs of Debian.

Step 4: Install Debian in the Virtual Machine

Start the virtual machine and choose the Debian ISO as the boot disk. Follow the instructions in the Debian installer to install Debian on the virtual machine.

Step 5: Use Debian on Ubuntu

Once installed, you can use Debian within the virtual machine running on Ubuntu. This method allows you to switch between Ubuntu and Debian without rebooting your system.

Method 3: Use Docker to Run Debian Containers

For advanced users, another way to run Debian on Ubuntu is by using Docker to create a Debian-based container. This is a lightweight option and ideal for testing or running specific applications.

Step 1: Install Docker

If you don’t have Docker installed, you can install it by running the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install docker.io

Step 2: Pull the Debian Image

Once Docker is installed, you can pull the official Debian image from the Docker Hub:

sudo docker pull debian

Step 3: Run the Debian Container

After pulling the Debian image, you can run a container with the following command:

sudo docker run -it debian

Step 4: Interact with Debian

You can now interact with a running Debian system inside the Docker container. You can install packages, run applications, and explore Debian without affecting your main system.

Conclusion

Installing Debian on an Ubuntu system can be done in several ways, depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you choose to dual boot, use a virtual machine, or run a Docker container, each method allows you to experience Debian without having to give up your Ubuntu system. These methods give you the flexibility to explore both operating systems in parallel.

Why Checking Your Ubuntu Version is Important?

There are several reasons why you might need to check your Ubuntu version:

• Software Compatibility: Some applications or packages may require specific Ubuntu versions to work correctly.
• Security Updates: Knowing your version helps ensure you’re using the latest security patches.
• System Troubleshooting: Certain issues may be version-specific, so knowing your version is essential for finding solutions.
• Upgrading Ubuntu: To upgrade to a newer version, you first need to know your current version.

Now let’s look at how to check your Ubuntu version using different methods.

Method 1: Using the Terminal

The terminal is one of the most efficient ways to check your Ubuntu version. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Terminal

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal window.

Step 2: Run the Version Command

To check the version of Ubuntu, type the following command:

lsb_release -a

This command will display detailed information about your Ubuntu version. You should see output like this:

No LSB modules are available.
Distributor ID: Ubuntu
Description:    Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
Release:        20.04
Codename:       focal
        

The key fields to look for are:

• Description: This shows the version of Ubuntu you’re using, such as “Ubuntu 20.04 LTS”.
• Release: This is the version number (e.g., 20.04, 22.04, etc.).
• Codename: This is the codename associated with that version (e.g., focal, jammy, etc.).

Method 2: Using the /etc/os-release File

Another way to check the Ubuntu version is by checking the /etc/os-release file, which contains system information. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open the Terminal

Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal.

Step 2: Use the Cat Command

Run the following command to display the contents of the /etc/os-release file:

cat /etc/os-release

The output will show something like this:

NAME="Ubuntu"
VERSION="20.04 LTS (Focal Fossa)"
ID=ubuntu
ID_LIKE=debian
VERSION_ID="20.04"
VERSION_CODENAME=focal
UBUNTU_CODENAME=focal
        

Look for the VERSION field, which tells you your Ubuntu version (e.g., “20.04 LTS”).

Method 3: Using the Neofetch Tool

For those who like a more visually appealing way to display system information, the Neofetch tool can show your Ubuntu version along with other system details in a neat, terminal-friendly format.

Step 1: Install Neofetch

If you don’t already have Neofetch installed, open the terminal and run the following command to install it:

sudo apt install neofetch

Step 2: Run Neofetch

Once installed, you can display your system information, including your Ubuntu version, by typing:

neofetch

The output will display a variety of system information in a colorful format, including your Ubuntu version, kernel version, and more.

Method 4: Using the GUI (Graphical User Interface)

If you prefer not to use the terminal, you can also check your Ubuntu version using the graphical interface:

Step 1: Open Settings

Click on the “Activities” overview or the system menu and search for “Settings”.

Step 2: Go to the About Section

In the settings window, scroll down and click on the “About” section. You will see information about your system, including the version of Ubuntu you’re running.

Conclusion

Checking your Ubuntu version is simple and can be done in several ways, whether you prefer using the terminal or a graphical interface. Knowing your version helps you manage your system better, ensuring compatibility with software, receiving appropriate updates, and troubleshooting issues. By following any of the methods outlined above, you can quickly check your Ubuntu version and stay informed about your system’s current state.