Step-by-Step Guide: Verifying and Updating Your Server Kernel

Please follow these steps to ensure your server is running the secured kernel version:

1. Access Your Server:

Log in to your server via SSH as the root user.

2. Check Current Kernel Version:

Execute the following command:

uname -r

Compare the output to the required versions listed in the table above.

3. If an Update is Required:

If your version is lower than the required build, perform a manual update by running:

dnf update kernel -y

REMARK: This is for CentOs, RedHat, AlmaLinux only

For Ubuntu and Debian, please perform a manual update by running: 

apt-get upgrade
apt-get update

Note: A system reboot is required after this update to activate the new kernel.

4. For Imunify360 / KernelCare Subscribers:

If you have an active Imunify360 or KernelCare license, you can apply these patches without a reboot. Run the following command to force an immediate update:

kcarectl --update

5. Schedule a Reboot:

If you are not using a live-patching service (like KernelCare), please schedule a reboot immediately to finalize the security hardening.

Can’t afford the downtime?

If your operations cannot tolerate a reboot, we recommend subscribing to our KernelCare Add-on, which allows us to apply kernel patches live without restarting the server.

Ongoing Best Practices for Customers

Security is a shared responsibility. To stay protected, we strongly recommend the following:

1. Enable Auto-Updates: Ensure both cPanel and RPM (system packages) are set to update automatically in your WHM settings.

2. Data Redundancy: Always maintain a full off-server backup. If you do not have a backup strategy, please contact us to subscribe to our Managed Backup Service.

3. Managed Security & EDR: Upgrade to our Full Management Service to have our experts handle all security patching. For enterprise-grade protection, ask about our EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) Add-on to monitor and block advanced threats in real-time.

Support & Assistance

If you have questions regarding your kernel version or need assistance scheduling a reboot, please open a support ticket via our portal. Our team is standing by 24/7 to assist. Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.

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