Ubuntu 24.10 Gets a Kernel Upgrade: How to Install Linux Kernel 6.14

Title: Ubuntu 24.10 Gets a Kernel Upgrade: How to Install Linux Kernel 6.14

Linux Kernel 6.14 has been officially released, bringing a host of new features and improvements. Ubuntu 24.10 users can now install this latest kernel version to take advantage of enhanced hardware support and performance optimizations. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing Linux Kernel 6.14 on Ubuntu 24.10 using both graphical and command-line methods.

What’s New in Linux Kernel 6.14

Released on March 24, 2025, Linux Kernel 6.14 introduces several notable features:

• Btrfs RAID1 Read Balancing: Improves performance by balancing read operations across devices.
• ntsync Subsystem: Enhances compatibility with Windows NT synchronization primitives, benefiting game emulation through Wine.
• Uncached Buffered I/O Support: Provides better performance for certain I/O operations.
• AMD XDNA Ryzen AI NPU Driver: Adds support for AMD’s neural processing units, enabling AI workloads.
• Core Energy Counter Support for AMD CPUs: Allows monitoring of energy consumption on AMD processors.
• Power Supply Extensions: Enables adding properties to power supply devices from separate drivers.
• T-Head Vector Extensions for RISC-V: Supports vector extensions on RISC-V architectures.
• Power Management for Raspberry Pi: Adds suspend/resume support for Raspberry Pi devices.

These enhancements make Kernel 6.14 a compelling upgrade for users seeking improved hardware compatibility and performance.

Method 1: Installing via Mainline Kernels Tool (GUI)

The Mainline Kernels tool provides a user-friendly graphical interface for installing mainline kernels.

Steps:

1. Add the PPA: sudo add-apt-repository ppa:cappelikan/ppa
2. Update Package Lists: sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade
3. Install Mainline Tool: sudo apt install -y mainline
4. Launch Mainline Kernels Tool: Open the application from your system’s application menu.
5. Select and Install Kernel 6.14: In the tool, select “Linux kernel 6.14” and click the “Install” button.
6. Reboot System: After installation, reboot your computer to apply changes.

The Mainline Kernels tool also notifies users of new kernel versions, allowing easy upgrades.

Method 2: Installing via Command Line Interface (CLI)

For advanced users, installing Kernel 6.14 via the command line offers more control.

Steps:

1. Download Kernel Packages: Navigate to the Ubuntu Mainline Kernel PPA and download the following packages for your architecture (e.g., amd64):
   • linux-headers-6.14.0-061400-generic_6.14.0-061400.202503241442_amd64.deb
   • linux-headers-6.14.0-061400_6.14.0-061400.202503241442_all.deb
   • linux-image-unsigned-6.14.0-061400-generic_6.14.0-061400.202503241442_amd64.deb
   • linux-modules-6.14.0-061400-generic_6.14.0-061400.202503241442_amd64.deb
2. Install Packages: Place all downloaded .deb files in a single directory and run: sudo dpkg -i *.deb
3. Reboot System: After installation, reboot your computer to apply changes.

Note: Ensure Secure Boot is disabled, as these kernels are not signed.

Reverting to Previous Kernel

If you encounter issues with Kernel 6.14, you can revert to a previous kernel:

1. Access GRUB Menu: During boot, press the Esc key to access the GRUB menu.
2. Select Advanced Options: Choose “Advanced options for Ubuntu.”
3. Choose Previous Kernel: Select an earlier kernel version from the list to boot into.

Conclusion

Upgrading to Linux Kernel 6.14 on Ubuntu 24.10 offers numerous benefits, including enhanced hardware support and performance improvements. Whether you prefer a graphical interface or command-line approach, this guide provides the necessary steps to perform the upgrade safely. Always ensure you have backups before making significant system changes.

For more details, refer to the original article: You Can Now Install Linux Kernel 6.14 on Ubuntu 24.10, Here’s How