Linux Mint Shares a Possible Kernel Cleanup Solution
For those on Linux Mint who like to keep multiple kernels around but don't want them to take up too much space, you might be getting a new automated tool.
Linux Mint is always moving forward – and usually doing so in just the right ways. Such is the case with a new tool the developers have teased that could do a great job handling kernel cleanup.
You know, when you've upgraded your kernel and there are still older versions lying around?
Well, the developers are considering the idea of creating a system similar to what Fedora already has. That system will group kernels by series and allow you to decide which series you want to keep and how many iterations of that series you want to retain. Once you've configured the tool, it works automatically to remove old kernels on a weekly basis.
The one exception to this is when/if you install a custom kernel series. According to the Linux Mint blog, "When you track a known series, the tool installs its meta-packages and ensures you receive updates for that series. In the case of a custom series, the tool doesn’t know how to do that and warns you that it is your responsibility to do so."
This new feature moves kernel management away from the Update Manager and into the System Administration tool and is a one-time setup. According to the blog, there will also be a history feature, so you can check to see what kernels have been removed and when.
This new feature is currently planned for the next release of Linux Mint.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Linux Mint Shares a Possible Kernel Cleanup Solution
For those on Linux Mint who like to keep multiple kernels around but don't want them to take up too much space, you might be getting a new automated tool.
-
CachyOS Gets an Update
CachyOS August 2026 release is now available with the latest version of KDE, some new features, and plenty of improvements.
-
The Linux Kernel Dev Staging Area Now Rejects AI-Generated Patches
Unless a kernel patch is a valid security fix, it will be rejected if it was created using AI.
-
Linux Surpasses Double-Digit Market Share
According to two sources, the Linux operating system has hit a major milestone in market share that naysayers thought would never happen.
-
AI Helped Develop a Linux Exploit
A use-after-free race exploit was discovered and exploited on CentOS Stream 9.
-
Yet Another Linux Kernel Vulnerability Discovered
Affecting millions of systems, a kernel flaw discovered by Qualys could allow users to gain root privileges.
-
Ubuntu 26.10 to Include Ubuntu Certified Hardware Check
If you've ever wondered if your laptop or PC is officially certified to run Ubuntu, that curiosity will soon be met.
-
Substantial Update to IPFire Now Available
The lastest version of IPFire features a fundamental change to how the system handles DNS.
-
Gnome Working on Test Center App to Make Testing Easier
It's now possible to test experimental features on the Gnome desktop without worrying that you'll break things.
-
New Vulnerability Discovered in Linux Kernel
Hiding out for nearly 15 years, the Ghostlock vulnerability allows a standard logged-in user to gain root privileges.