Updating Kernel on the Linux system is essential. On most server, by default Kernel is excluded from automatic operating system and you have to schedule Kernel upgraded.

Updating Kernel on CentOS / Red Hat server is as easy and you just need to execute the following command:

yum -y update kernel

In the above command, -y assumes “yes” as an answer of any questions. Once the Kernel is upgraded to latest version, you will have to reboot your system to boot it from new Kernel. This step is mandatory if you are not using some third reboot less Kernel software like Kernelcare, Ksplice.

Once you boot your system using new Kernel, you should verify its version. To check the Kernel version, you can refer our article on How to check the Kernel version in Linux.