How does uname command differ between distributions?

The uname command in Linux is used to display system information. However, its output and the options available can differ between distributions. Here’s how:

  • Debian/Ubuntu: Generally, these distributions provide a more standardized output, focusing on the kernel name, version, and architecture.
  • Red Hat/CentOS: Often include additional flags and may present more detailed information, including the OS type and version.
  • Arch Linux: Tends to offer a simplistic but efficient output, mainly focusing on the kernel details.

For example, on a Debian-based system, executing the uname -a command might yield:

Linux ubuntu 5.8.0-53-generic #60~20.04.1-Ubuntu SMP Tue Feb 23 10:15:40 UTC 2021 x86_64 x86_64 x86_64 GNU/Linux

Whereas on a Red Hat-based system, it could look like:

Linux centos 3.10.0-1160.el7.x86_64 #1 SMP Tue Jan 12 23:35:55 UTC 2021 x86_64 x86_64 x86_64 GNU/Linux

uname command Linux distributions system information Debian Ubuntu Red Hat CentOS Arch Linux