The Linux kernel is the core of any Linux operating system, including Ubuntu. It is the layer between the user’s applications and the system’s hardware. Occasionally, you may need to install an old kernel on Ubuntu, either due to compatibility issues with certain software or because a new kernel version is causing issues. This article will guide you through the process of installing an old kernel on Ubuntu.
Disclaimer: Installing an old kernel on an unsupported version of Ubuntu may lead to compatibility issues and potential security vulnerabilities. Always ensure to back up your data before proceeding with the installation.
To install an old kernel on Ubuntu, you have two methods: manual installation and using apt-get with the Mainline Kernel Installer. In the manual installation method, you download the kernel files from the Ubuntu kernel mainline website and install them using the dpkg command. Then, you reboot and select the new kernel from the GRUB menu. In the apt-get method, you add the Mainline Kernel Installer repository, install the installer, launch it, select the desired kernel version, and install it. Again, you reboot and select the new kernel from the GRUB menu.
Method 1: Manual Installation
Step 1: Download the Kernel Files
First, you need to download the kernel files. Open a browser and navigate to the Ubuntu kernel mainline website. Scroll down to the bottom of the list and select the desired kernel version. For instance, if you want to install the 3.16.0-28-generic kernel, click on the corresponding link.
Download the following files:
linux-headers-xxxxxx-generic-xxxxxx_amd64.deblinux-headers-xxxxxx_all.deblinux-image-xxxxxx-generic-xxxxxx_amd64.deb
The xxxxxx in the filenames will be replaced by the version and build number of the kernel.
Step 2: Install the Kernel
Create a new folder and move all the downloaded files into it. Open a terminal and navigate to the folder using the cd command.
Install the kernel packages by running the following command:
sudo dpkg -i *.debThe dpkg -i command is used to install packages. The *.deb specifies that all files with the .deb extension in the current directory should be installed.
Step 3: Reboot and Select the New Kernel
After the installation is complete, reboot your system. During the boot process, you will see the GRUB menu. Select the new kernel version from the menu.
Method 2: Using apt-get and Mainline Kernel Installer
Step 1: Add the Repository and Install the Mainline Kernel Installer
Open a terminal and add the Ubuntu Mainline Kernel Installer repository by running the following commands:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:cappelikan/ppa
sudo apt updateThe add-apt-repository command adds a new repository to your system. The ppa:cappelikan/ppa is the repository for the Mainline Kernel Installer. The apt update command updates the package list for the new repository.
Now, install the Mainline Kernel Installer by running:
sudo apt install mainlineThe apt install command installs the Mainline Kernel Installer from the newly added repository.
Step 2: Install the Kernel
Launch the Mainline Kernel Installer from the application launcher. In the GUI, select the desired kernel version and click “Install.” Wait for the installation to complete.
Step 3: Reboot and Select the New Kernel
Reboot your system. During the boot process, you will see the GRUB menu. Select the new kernel version from the menu.
Conclusion
Installing an old kernel on Ubuntu can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully. However, always remember to back up your data before making any significant changes to your system. Also, keep in mind the potential risks and ensure you’re installing a kernel that is compatible with your Ubuntu version.
No, it is recommended to only install an old kernel on a supported version of Ubuntu. Installing it on an unsupported version may lead to compatibility issues and potential security vulnerabilities.
The choice of old kernel version depends on the specific compatibility or issue you are facing. You may need to research and identify which kernel version has better compatibility with the software or hardware causing the problem.
Yes, Ubuntu allows you to have multiple kernel versions installed on your system. During the boot process, you can choose which kernel version to boot into from the GRUB menu.
Installing an old kernel should not affect your existing data and applications. However, it is always recommended to back up your data before making any significant changes to your system, just in case.
To remove an old kernel, you can use the apt package manager. Open a terminal and use the command sudo apt remove linux-image-x.x.x-generic (replace x.x.x with the specific version number of the kernel you want to remove). Additionally, you can use the apt autoremove command to remove any unused dependencies.
Yes, you can switch back to the default kernel by rebooting your system and selecting the default kernel version from the GRUB menu.
