Linux kernel release dates and downloads
The Linux kernel is the core of every Linux system, led by Linus Torvalds. Most people get new kernels through their distribution's updates; kernel.org publishes the source code for each release.
Linux kernel editions and flavors
Every download goes to the official site.
Upcoming Linux kernel releases
Soonest first.
- Linux kernel 7.4 Linux kernel · Expected in 47 days 80%chance
- Linux kernel 7.5 Linux kernel · Expected in 110 days 55%chance
Linux kernel release timeline
Filled dots are out. The blue dot is today.
All Linux kernel versions
Every 9-10 weeks (about 5-6 per year).
| Version | Released | Gap | Support | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linux kernel 7.5 | 21 Feb-7 Mar 2027 | Not out yet | ||
| Linux kernel 7.4 | 20-27 Dec 2026 | Not out yet | ||
| Linux kernel 7.3 | Oct 18, 2026 | 2.1 mo | Supported | Files |
| Linux kernel 7.2 | Aug 16, 2026 | 2.1 mo | Ended Nov 2026 | Files |
| Linux kernel 7.1 | Jun 14, 2026 | 2.1 mo | Ended Sep 2026 | Files |
| Linux kernel 7.0 | Apr 12, 2026 | 2.1 mo | Ended Jun 2026 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.19 | Feb 8, 2026 | 2.3 mo | Ended Apr 2026 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.18 LTS | Nov 30, 2025 | 2.1 mo | Until Dec 2028 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.17 | Sep 28, 2025 | 2.1 mo | Ended Dec 2025 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.16 | Jul 27, 2025 | 2.1 mo | Ended Oct 2025 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.15 | May 25, 2025 | 2.0 mo | Ended Aug 2025 | Files |
| Linux kernel 6.14 | Mar 24, 2025 | 2.1 mo | Ended Jun 2025 | Files |
Linux kernel questions
What is the latest version of Linux kernel?
Linux kernel 7.3, released on Oct 18, 2026. The newest long-term support version is Linux kernel 6.18 LTS.
When is the next Linux kernel release?
Linux kernel 7.4: Expected Dec 20-27, 2026. This is our forecast; the project has not announced a date.
How often does Linux kernel release a new version?
Every 9-10 weeks (about 5-6 per year). The average gap over recent releases was about 2.1 months.
Which Linux kernel version should I use?
Use the kernel your distribution ships. If you need long support, pick a longterm (LTS) kernel such as 6.18 instead of the newest one.
What is a kernel release candidate (rc)?
After a two-week merge window for new features, Linus Torvalds releases weekly test versions called rc1, rc2 and so on. The final kernel usually follows rc7, or rc8 if more fixes are needed.
Where do the download links go?
Every download link goes to Linux kernel's own site (kernel.org). We never host or repackage files.