Learn how to perform a Debian Backports Kernel update. Our Server Management Support team is here to help you with your questions and concerns.

Debian Backports Kernel Update

Keeping the Debian system up-to-date is crucial for gaining access to the latest hardware support, security patches, and features. One way to achieve this is by updating the kernel through the Debian Backports repository.

Today, we are going to take a look at installing a newer kernel version and booting from it.

1. To begin, open a terminal and type the following command:

   sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list

   If Nano is not installed, use:

   sudo apt install nano
2. Then, add the backports repository by adding this line:

   deb http://deb.debian.org/debian buster-backports main contrib non-free
3. Save the file with Ctrl+o and exit nano with Ctrl+x.
4. Next, we have to update the repositories with:

   sudo apt update
5. Then, verify the backport repository and search for available kernel packages:

   apt search linux-image
6. Now, it is time to identify the desired kernel version with ‘bpo’ indicating backport.
7. Now, get ready to install the chosen kernel using:

   sudo apt install -t buster-backports linux-image-kernel_name

   We have to replace ‘kernel_name’ with the package name for our architecture.
8. After installation, update the GRUB bootloader configuration:

   sudo update-grub
9. Finally, reboot the system to activate the new kernel. During boot, GRUB will present a menu where we can select the desired kernel version.

After the above steps, we can confirm the installed kernel version as seen here:

uname -r

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Conclusion

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to perform a Debian Backports Kernel update.