Ubuntu: Deleting old kernels - here's how

The kernel is an essential part of the Ubuntu operating system, without which it cannot be started. If a new kernel version is installed during an update, the old kernels are not removed in the process. How you delete them manually yourself, we explain here.

How to find out the current kernel version on Ubuntu

If you have updated the kernels on your Ubuntu computer, the old kernels are not automatically deleted in the process. Instead, it is necessary to perform the deletion process manually. However, make sure not to delete all kernels, otherwise the operating system will no longer boot. Before you start deleting the old kernels, it is necessary to determine the current kernel version. To do this, right-click on your desktop and select the "Open Terminal" option. After entering the command "uname -a", you will be shown the kernel version.

Ubuntu: Here's how to delete old kernels

Having found out the current kernel version of your Ubuntu PC, it is necessary to install the graphical package manager "Synaptic". Therefore, install it with the command "sudo apt-get install synaptic" and then start the program with "sudo synaptic".

1. Skip the short introduction to the program and go to "Kernel and Modules" instead.
2. There, search for "linux-image" and click "S" in the table that appears to get an overview of all installed Linux kernels. These are marked by a green dot.
3. Now select the kernels to be uninstalled by right-clicking them and selecting "Mark for removal".
4. Finally, click "Apply" twice to start the deletion process.