How to Check OS Version in Linux
Linux
21.08.2025
Reading time: 11 min
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The popularity of the powerful and versatile Linux operating system lies in the variety of available versions. From Ubuntu to Red Hat, from Mint to Fedora, each Linux version offers users unique features and benefits. Hostman offers a reliable managed Linux VPS. It is important to check Linux OS version for compatibility, as varied versions have different software requirements.
You might not be able to install and run the most recent software updates if you're using an earlier version. particular Linux versions might not support particular hardware components. You can resolve any compatibility problems by being aware of your OS version. Thus, it's critical to verify the Linux OS version and be aware of the one you're using.
Knowing your OS version in Linux is obligatory for security reasons. All operating systems release updates to address security vulnerabilities, and Linux is no exception. If you know your OS version, you can be sure that the necessary security updates are installed. This is especially important for businesses and organizations dealing with confidential information and requiring strong security control.
Another reason for checking Linux OS version is for support purposes. Various versions differentiate by support lifecycles. They have limited time to receive updates and support from developers. Knowing your OS version gives you an idea of ​​when it needs to be updated. An unsupported Linux version can leave your system vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues.
Checking Linux OS Version is Pretty Simple
What is a Linux Version
A Linux version, commonly termed a distro or distribution, is a customized version of the Linux operating system. It comes with a tailored mix of software, desktop environments, and functionalities. These distributions are custom-made to meet the varied needs and desires of their users. This comprises everything from individual PC users to huge corporations. Linux's open-source nature and flexibility enable various people and organizations to create and modify these distributions to meet specific needs.
For example:
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Distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, and Linux Mint are pretty useful for beginners because they offer user-friendly interfaces, extensive documentation, and a strong community network.
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Advanced distributions like Arch Linux grant unparalleled customization and autonomy, ideal for users who prefer crafting their systems from the ground up.
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Server-oriented distributions like CentOS and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) are engineered for reliability, security, and top-tier performance, making them perfect for enterprise environments and critical applications.
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Specialized distributions like Kali Linux for security testing and Tails for anonymity are designed for specific purposes.
A typical Linux distribution includes the Linux kernel (which controls hardware), a package manager (for installing and updating applications), and a set of default applications. The desktop environment (like GNOME, XFCE, or KDE) can be tailored in appearance and functionality to align with user preferences.
Popular Linux distributions and their versions
It’s important to check the Linux OS version as the operating system offers a large selection of distributions, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Common forms include Ubuntu, Debian, Red Hat, CentOS, Fedora and Mint.
Ubuntu is famous for its user-friendly interface and regular updates. Debian is known for its strict adherence to free software principles. Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) offers a stable and secure platform for businesses. CentOS provides similar features to users for free. Fedora is distinguished by its frequent updates and use of the latest software. Mint features a more traditional desktop environment.
The software, desktop environment, and support lifespan of each version varies. There are multiple releases or versions of each distribution, each with its own code names and updates. Fedora offers editions like Silverblue and Workstation, while Ubuntu has editions like Bionic Beaver, Cosmic Cuttlefish, and Disco Dingo. They cater to a diverse spectrum of users' wants and tastes.
Each Linux distribution has its own unique version numbering system, because it is an open-source operating system developed and maintained by a community of developers. Therefore, each distribution has its own set of developers who make decisions about naming and numbering their releases. Users can easily determine which version they are using and what changes have been made since the last update, and developers can track their progress and plan future releases.
Typically a three-level version numbering system with numbers separated by dots is used. The first number is a major release for updates or changes to the distribution, the second number is a minor release for bug fixes, security updates, and minor feature additions, the third number is a hotfix release for minor bug fixes and updates.
Ubuntu uses a version numbering system in the format 'XX.YY.ZZ', where the first number is a year, the second is a month of release, and the third number is incremented with each new release that month. The system displays the age of release and frequency of updates.
Code names, such as names of animals or cities, are also used to recognize releases of Linux distributions. Fedora uses code names for its releases like 'Bordeaux' and 'Heisenbug' to make it easier for users to navigate the different versions.
There are numerous methods for determining the Linux operating system version and obtaining distribution details. We'll talk about the most popular. Continue reading to find out how to check the Linux OS version.
How to check the Linux OS version through the 'lsb_release' command
You can apply the lsb_release command to check the Linux OS version. You’ll receive detailed information about the distribution, release, and codename of your operating system.
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To start, open the terminal;
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Type the command:
lsb_release -a-
Press Enter to view a list of information displayed in your terminal.
Here's the main screen oof terminal with Linux OS version
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The
Distributor IDline is a name of your Linux distribution, for instance, Ubuntu, Fedora, or CentOS. -
The
Descriptionline is a brief description of your Linux distribution with details such as the release number and the codename of your system. -
The
Releaseline is a display of the specific version of your Linux distribution, such as '18.04' for Ubuntu or a name like 'Bionic Beaver.' -
The
Codenameline is your system’s codename assigned to each version of a Linux distribution, such as 'Bionic Beaver' for Ubuntu 18.04.
How to check the OS version in Linux through the 'cat /etc/os-release' command
You can apply the cat /etc/os-release command to check the OS version in Linux. It will help you quickly determine your OS version and show detailed information.
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To start, open the terminal;
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Type the command:
cat /etc/os-release-
Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.
"Cat" is a most popular method to check your OS version
-
The
IDfield is the name of your Linux distribution, such as Ubuntu or CentOS. -
The
VERSION_IDfield is the specific version of that distribution, such as Ubuntu 18.04 or CentOS 7.
The cat /etc/os-release command shows other useful information about your operating system, such as the name and version of the operating system kernel, the desktop environment or window manager you are using, and the OS build and release date.
How to check version of OS in Linux through the 'uname -a' command
You can apply the uname -a command to check the Linux OS version. It displays detailed information about your system's kernel version, architecture, processor type, hostname, and even the date and time of the last system boot.
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To start, open the terminal;
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Type the command:
uname -a-
Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.
This is a most fastest ways to check everything you need
The output typically includes the Linux operating system kernel version and system architecture to ensure that you download and install the correct version of the software, avoiding compatibility issues and potential bugs. The command also provides information about the last time the system booted for analyzing system performance and identifying potential problems.
Other ways to check OS version in Linux
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The
hostnamectlcommand
This is a new way to check the Linux OS version, available on systems using systemd. It provides more detailed data than previous methods, including kernel version, architecture, and hardware platform.
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To get the output, open the terminal;
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Type the command:
hostnamectl-
Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.
"Hostnamectl" is and alternative to other methods
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The
/etc/os-releasefile
The /etc directory contains configuration files and scripts used by the system, including the os-release file with information about the OS version
To get the output, open the terminal and enter the command:
cat /etc/os-releaseYou can also check release date among with version of OS
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The
/etc/issuefile
This file with system information is used for login prompts as well as for checking the OS version in Linux.
To get the output, enter the command:
cat /etc/issueThis one's also fast and cool method to see useful info
The name and version of the operating system are displayed here.
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The
versionfile
Some Linux distributions have a version file in the /etc directory with information about the distribution and version.
To get the output, open the terminal and enter the command:
cat /etc/versionThe distribution name and version number are displayed here.
How to Check Linux OS Version Using GUI
This operating system has several ways to check your OS version. We have already explored the common methods through the command line interface. Now let’s learn how to check the Linux OS version without command. This is where the graphical user interface (GUI) comes into play, offering a convenient way to access system information.
You need to access the system settings:
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To start, click on the 'Activities' button on the top-left corner of the screen;
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Enter 'system' in the search bar;
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Navigate to the 'System Settings' window and click the 'Details' option to display the OS name, version, and other system information in a new window.
Checking the OS version in any Linux distribution is similar and differs slightly only in names of the buttons or windows in the search bar:
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In Ubuntu click on the 'Activities' button and type 'System Settings' in the search bar, then navigate to the 'Details' tab.
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In Fedora click on the 'Show Applications' button and type 'Settings' in the search bar, then navigate to the 'About' tab.
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In CentOS click on the 'Applications' button and navigate to 'System Tools' and then 'Settings', then navigate to the 'System' tab.
Checking the OS Version in Linux FAQ
Let's go over a few frequently asked questions about Linux OS versions.
Why is it vital to check the OS version in Linux?
Verifying the OS version in Linux is essential for ensuring compatibility, maintaining security, and accessing support. Each version has distinct software prerequisites, life cycle durations, and security patches.
How often should I check my Linux OS version?
Consistently verifying your OS version is crucial, especially before adding new software or updates. This practice keeps your system current and secure.
What are some of the widely recognized Linux distributions?
Some widely recognized Linux distributions are Ubuntu, Debian, Kali Linux, Raspberry Pi, CentOS, Fedora, and Linux Mint. Each one boasts unique features designed to cater to the diverse needs of its user base.
Can I check the Linux OS version using a GUI?
Yes, you can check the Linux OS version via the GUI by heading to the system settings and locating the 'Details' or 'About' section, depending on your particular distribution.
Why do various Linux distributions have unique version numbering systems?
Each Linux distribution is developed and maintained by a different community or organization. Consequently, they all have unique version numbering systems to monitor progress and schedule future releases. For instance, Ubuntu's version number format is 'XX.YY.ZZ', where 'XX' denotes the year, 'YY' indicates the month of release, and 'ZZ' increments with each new release within that month.
Conclusion
Linux OS versions vary in underlying architecture, package management system, desktop environment, security features, compatibility, and release cycles. Each version has its own unique set of features and benefits, so users can choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences. Understanding your Linux OS version helps you in troubleshooting and solving problems, providing a better insight into the system's capabilities and limitations, allowing you to make informed decisions when it comes to upgrading or modifying the system.
Now you have learned the different methods on how to check OS version in Linux through special commands or using GUI. Choose the best way for yourself and use it. Regularly checking and updating your Linux OS version is a good practice to ensure productive and hassle-free operation of your computer. This ensures that the system is running the latest version and all necessary security protocols are installed.
If you're already found out your Linux version, don't forget to check how to create a server image on Linux.
Linux
21.08.2025
Reading time: 11 min
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Linux
How to Find a File in Linux
In Unix-like operating systems, a file is more than just a named space on a disk. It is a universal interface for accessing information. A Linux user should know how to quickly find the necessary files by name and other criteria.
The locate Command
The first file search command in Linux that we will look at is called locate. It performs a fast search by name in a special database and outputs all names matching the specified substring.
Suppose we want to find all programs that begin with zip. Since we are looking specifically for programs, it is logical to assume that the directory name ends with bin. Taking this into account, let’s try to find the necessary files:
locate bin/zip
Output:
locate performed a search in the pathname database and displayed all names containing the substring bin/zip.
For more complex search criteria, locate can be combined with other programs, for example, grep:
locate bin | grep zip
Output:
Sometimes, in Linux, searching for a file name with locate works incorrectly (it may output names of deleted files or fail to include newly created ones). In such a case, you need to update the database of indexes:
sudo updatedb
locate supports wildcards and regular expressions. If the string contains metacharacters, you pass a pattern instead of a substring as an argument, and the command matches it against the full pathname.
Let’s say we need to find all names with the suffix .png in the Pictures directory:
locate '*Pictures/*.png'
Output:
To search using a regular expression, the -r option is used (POSIX BRE standard):
locate -r 'bin/\(bz\|gz\|zip\)'
The find Command
find is the main tool for searching files in Linux through the terminal. Unlike locate, find allows you to search files by many parameters, such as size, creation date, permissions, etc.
In the simplest use case, we pass the directory name as an argument and find searches for files in this directory and all of its subdirectories. If you don’t specify any options, the command outputs a list of all files.
For example, to get all names in the home directory, you can use:
find ~
The output will be very large because find will print all names in the directory and its subdirectories.
To make the search more specific, use options to set criteria.
Search Criteria
Suppose we want to output only directories. For this, we will use the -type option:
find ~/playground/ -type d
Output:
This command displayed all subdirectories in the ~/playground directory. Supported types are:
b — block device
c — character device
d — directory
f — regular file
l — symbolic link
We can also search by size and name. For example, let’s try to find regular files matching the pattern .png and larger than one kilobyte:
find ~ -type f -name "*.png" -size +1k
Output:
The -name option specifies the name. In this example, we use a wildcard pattern, so it is enclosed in quotes. The -size parameter restricts the search by size. A + sign before the number means we are looking for files larger than the given size, a - sign means smaller. If no sign is present, find will display only files exactly matching the size.
Symbols for size units:
b — 512-byte blocks (default if no unit is specified)
c — bytes
w — 2-byte words
k — kilobytes
M — megabytes
G — gigabytes
find supports a huge number of checks that allow searching by various criteria. You can check them all in the documentation.
Operators
Operators help describe logical relationships between checks more precisely.
Suppose we need to detect insecure permissions. To do this, we want to output all files with permissions not equal to 0600 and all directories with permissions not equal to 0700. find provides special logical operators to combine such checks:
find ~ \( -type f -not -perm 0600 \) -or \( -type d -not -perm 0700 \)
Supported logical operators:
-and / -a — logical AND. If no operators are specified between checks, AND is assumed by default.
-or / -o — logical OR.
-not / ! — logical NOT.
( ) — allows grouping checks and operators to create complex expressions. Must be escaped.
Predefined Actions
We can combine file search with performing actions on the found files. There are predefined and user-defined actions. For the former, find provides the following options:
-delete — delete found files
-ls — equivalent to ls -dils
-print — output the full file name (default action)
-quit — stop after the first match
Suppose we need to delete all files with the .bak suffix. Of course, we could immediately use find with the -delete option, but for safety it’s better to first output the list of files to be deleted, and then remove them:
find ~ -type f -name '*.bak' -print
Output:
After verification, delete them:
find ~ -type f -name '*.bak' -delete
User-defined Actions
With user-defined actions, we can combine the search with using various Linux utilities:
-exec command '{}' ';'
Here, command is the command name, {} is the symbolic representation of the current pathname, and ; is the command separator. For example, we can apply the ls -l command to each found file:
find ~ -type f -name 'foo*' -exec ls -l '{}' ';'
Output:
Sometimes commands can take multiple arguments at once, for example, rm. To avoid applying the command separately to each found name, put a + at the end of -exec instead of a separator:
find ~ -type f -name 'foo*' -exec ls -l '{}' +
Output:
A similar task can be done using the xargs utility. It takes a list of arguments as input and forms commands based on them. For example, here’s a well-known command for outputting files that contain “uncomfortable” characters in their names (spaces, line breaks, etc.):
find ~ -iname '*.jpg' -print0 | xargs --null ls -l
The -print0 argument forces found names to be separated by the null character (the only character forbidden in file names). The --null option in xargs indicates that the input is a list of arguments separated by the null character.
Conclusion
In Linux, searching for a file by name is done using the locate and find commands. Of course, you can also use file managers with a familiar graphical interface for these purposes. However, the utilities we have considered help make the search process more flexible and efficient.
22 August 2025 · 5 min to read
Java
Switching between Java Versions on Ubuntu
Managing multiple Java versions on Ubuntu is essential for developers working on diverse projects. Different applications often require different versions of the Java Development Kit (JDK) or Java Runtime Environment (JRE), making it crucial to switch between these versions efficiently. Ubuntu provides powerful tools to handle this, and one of the most effective methods is using the update-java-alternatives command.
Switching Between Java Versions
In this article, the process of switching between Java versions using updata-java-alternatives will be shown. This specialized tool simplifies the management of Java environments by updating all associated commands (such as java, javac, javaws, etc.) in one go.
Overview of Java version management
A crucial component of development is Java version control, especially when working on many projects with different Java Runtime Environment (JRE) or Java Development Kit (JDK) needs. In order to prevent compatibility problems and ensure efficient development workflows, proper management ensures that the right Java version is utilized for every project.
Importance of using specific Java versions
You must check that the Java version to be used is compatible with the application, program, or software running on the system. Using the appropriate Java version ensures that the product runs smoothly and without any compatibility issues.
Newer versions of Java usually come with updates and security fixes, which helps protect the system from vulnerabilities. Using an out-of-date Java version may expose the system to security vulnerabilities.
Performance enhancements and optimizations are introduced with every Java version. For maximum performance, use a Java version that is specific to the application.
Checking the current Java version
It is important to know which versions are installed on the system before switching to other Java versions. To check the current Java version, the java-common package has to be installed. This package contains common tools for the Java runtimes including the update-java-alternatives method. This method allows you to list the installed Java versions and facilitates switching between them. Use the following command to install the java-common package:
sudo apt-get install java-common
Upon completing the installation, verify all installed Java versions on the system using the command provided below:
sudo update-java-alternatives --list
The report above shows that Java versions 8 and 11 are installed on the system. Use the command below to determine which version is being used at the moment.
java -version
The displayed output indicates that the currently active version is Java version 11.
Installing multiple Java versions
Technically speaking, as long as there is sufficient disk space and the package repositories support it, the administrator of Ubuntu is free to install as many Java versions as they choose.
Follow the instructions below for installing multiple Java versions.
Begin by updating the system using the following command:
sudo apt-get update -y && sudo apt-get upgrade -y
To add another version of Java, run the command below.
sudo apt-get install <java version package name>
In this example, installing Java version 17 can be done by running:
sudo apt-get install openjdk-17-jdk openjdk-17-jre
Upon completing the installation, use the following command to confirm the correct and successful installation of the Java version:
sudo update-java-alternatives --list
Switching and setting the default Java version
To switch between Java versions and set a default version on Ubuntu Linux, you can use the update-java-alternatives command.
sudo update-java-alternatives --set <java_version>
In this case, the Java version 17 will be set as default:
sudo update-java-alternatives --set java-1.17.0-openjdk-amd64
To check if Java version 17 is the default version, run the command:
java -version
The output shows that the default version of Java is version 17.
Managing and Switching Java Versions in Ubuntu
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing multiple Java versions on Ubuntu Linux using update-java-alternatives is a simple yet effective process. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can seamlessly switch between different Java environments, ensuring compatibility with various projects and taking advantage of the latest features and optimizations offered by different Java versions. Because Java version management is flexible, developers may design reliable and effective Java apps without sacrificing system performance or stability.
22 August 2025 · 4 min to read
Linux
Linux cp Command
Linux has an unlimited set of commands to perform assigned tasks. The Linux cp command is the primary tool and the basis for copying and managing files and directories in this operating system. This function is designed to duplicate files or directories in the same or different location. Armed with this functionality, users have advanced capabilities: from creating backup copies to moving files between directories.
Linux cp command is simple to learn
You can find all the necessary information covered in this tutorial. You will discover how the Linux cp command and cp directory work, as well as its grammatical structures, crucial hints, parameters, settings, and recommended practices. Readers will learn the tricks of the cp command, which will help them become more proficient.
You can try our Linux VPS hosting for your projects.
The core of the cp command in Linux
The functionality of the command allows users to control the creation of copies. One feature offers overwriting existing files, another is responsible for recursively copying a directory with its entire entities, and the third protects the first data for repeating backups. This command demonstrates more features for specific purposes and user experience during the process.
A key benefit of the cp command is its exceptional accuracy in duplicating files and directories. You can be absolutely sure that the duplicated files are identical to the original ones with all its interior. Therefore, the user can replicate the original file without any changes. The cp command in Linux inherently tells the user a destination directory for storing copies in a specific repository. The command's precision makes it indispensable for both novice and advanced users.
Linux cp syntax
This command consists of the following parameters: source file or directory and destination directory. The basic syntax of the Linux cp command is as follows:
cp [...file/directory-sources] [destination]
Here [file/directory-sources] specifies the files or directories sources to copy, while the [destination] specifies the location to copy the file to.
There are the letter flags to specify the way of creation a replica of files and directories:
-a leaves the first file attributes the same;
-r recursively replicates directories and their interior entities;
-v shows copied files in detail;
-i requires consent to overwrite the file;
-u rewrites new or missing files in the destination directory;
-f forcibly copies without user consent;
-s makes a symbolic link instead of a file replica;
-ra recreates an exact duplicate of a file or directory without changing attributes;
-rf updates or changes a file or directory with the original name in the same place;
-pv (if installed) monitors and shows the time required to complete copying large folders.
How to copy files with the cp command
To make a file copy, apply the cp command in Linux as follows:
cp ./DirectoryA_1/README.txt ./DirectoryA_2
where ./DirectoryA_1/README.txt is the source file, and ./DirectoryA_2 is the destination.
The cp command was originally designed to interact with files. To replicate directories, you must use the -r flag to command that the directory with all its interior entities to be copied recursively. Therefore, you should write cp -r before the directory sources in Linux as follows:
cp -r ./DirectoryA_1/Folder/ ./DirectoryA_2
The cp -r command in Linux will recursively duplicate the Folder directory in ./DirectoryA_1/ as well as all contents in the Folder directory.
For instance, if you need to replicate the whole file contents in DirectoryA_1 with the .txt extension, try following command:
cp ./DirectoryA_1/*.txt ./DirectoryA_2
where ./DirectoryA_1/*.txt matches files with the .txt extension in their names, and the cp command duplicates all those data to the destination.
Best practices of the cp Linux command
To duplicate one unit of information via the Linux cp command, write down the file name and destination directory. For instance, to replicate a file named example.txt to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command:
cp example.txt Documents/
The action leads to creating a file duplicate in the 'Documents' directory with the original name.
To copy multiple files at once, utilize the cp command in Linux, specifying the file names separated by a space. For instance, to duplicate three files named 'file1.txt', 'file2.txt', and 'file3.txt' to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command:
cp file1.txt file2.txt file3.txt Documents/
To replicate a directory with all its interior entities, apply the -r that means cp recursive feature in Linux. For instance, to duplicate a directory named 'Pictures' to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command:
cp -r Pictures Documents/
The action leads to creating a copy of the 'Pictures' directory with all its interior contents in the 'Documents' directory.
To replicate a folder in Linux, you should utilize the -r flag. For instance, to duplicate a folder named 'Pictures' from the existing directory to a folder named 'Photos' in the home directory, try the following command:
cp -r Pictures/ ~/Photos/
The destination folder will be created automatically if none exists. The files in the destination folder will be combined with the core of the source folder if one already exists.
The cp -a feature in Linux leaves unchanged the initial file attributes while copying. Therefore, the duplicates will have the same parameters as their originals. For instance, to replicate a file named 'example.txt' to the 'Documents' directory while leaving unchanged its attributes, try the following command:
cp -a example.txt Documents/
The Linux cp -v function showcases the progress of the duplication. At the same time the user can copy large files while monitoring the process. For instance, to replicate a file named 'largefile.zip' to the 'Downloads' directory while watching the progress, try the following command:
cp -v largefile.zip Downloads/
The -i option requires the consent before overwriting an initial file. to protect against an accidental file rewriting. For instance, to duplicate a file named 'example.txt' to the 'Documents' directory, if a file with the identical name already exists, the cp command will require the consent before rewriting the original file.
Initially, the Linux cp command copies a file or a directory to a default location. The system allows the user to specify any other location for the duplicate file or directory. For instance, to replicate a file named 'example.txt' from the 'Documents' directory to the 'Downloads' directory, try the following command:
cp Documents/example.txt Downloads/
The cp -ra function in Linux is designed to carry out the copying process of directories with all their contents inside. The -r flag gives an order to repeat all the files and directories within an existing location, while the -a flag keeps the initial attributes preserved. Therefore, it is possible to make an exact duplicate of a directory without changing attributes.
For instance, if you apply the command cp -ra /home/user1/documents /home/user2, it will replicate the 'documents' directory with all its entities inside in the 'user2' directory. The new folder will show the identical attributes as the initial item.
The cp -rf feature in Linux is similar to the previous -ra option. The difference between these two functions is that the -f flag rewrites the given files or directories in the destination without requiring consent. Therefore, it is possible to update or replace an item with the identical name in the place of destination.
For instance, if you apply the command cp -rf /home/user1/documents /home/user2, and there is already a 'documents' directory in the 'user2' directory, it will be overwritten with the contents of the 'documents' directory from the 'user1' directory.
Be careful while utilizing the -rf function. Incorrect use of it leads to data loss. Check up twice the destination folder to avoid unwanted rewriting items.
It is simpler to work with files and directories when you use Linux's cp -r capability with the -a and -f settings. Whereas the -rf particle modifies or replaces files and directories, the -ra particle precisely copies a directory and everything within it. You can learn how to handle stuff in this operating system by properly applying these differences.
If you want to monitor and control the process of item duplication, which is not possible with other parameters of the cp command, use the -pv utility.
To install the pv utility on Debian/Ubuntu you need to open the terminal and run the following command:
apt-get install pv
After the installation is complete, verify it by running the following command in the terminal
pv --version
To install the pv utility on CentOS/Fedora, you need to connect the EPEL repository, which contains additional software packages unavailable in the default repositories. Run in the terminal:
yum install epel-release
Then run the following command in the terminal:
yum install pv
After the installation is complete, verify it by running the following command in the terminal:
pv --version
To use this particle with the cp command, you should utilize | symbol. You can use the ~ symbol to indicate the root directory if the full path needs to be specified.
For instance, to replicate a folder named 'Documents' from the root directory to a folder named 'Backup' in the home directory, try the following action:
cp -r Documents/ ~/Backup/ | pv
Example of executed Linux cp command
Conclusion
The cp command, although not an inherently difficult tool to learn, nevertheless provides basic knowledge of using the Linux operating system in terms of managing files and directories. In this tutorial, we tried to show the capabilities of the cp command in Linux from all sides, demonstrating best practices and useful tips of its various parameters. With new knowledge, you will be able to improve your skills in interacting with files and directories in Linux.
The extreme accuracy of the copying process and additional options allow you to solve a wide range of problems. Multifunctionality helps users choose the file management mode and complete tasks efficiently. The command is a prime example of the many capabilities of this operating system, including the cp with progress feature in Linux. Altogether they unlock a potential of the system for novice and advanced users.
22 August 2025 · 9 min to read
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