How do I update / upgrade my kernel under Ubuntu Linux version 8.04?

You can easily upgrade your kernel under Ubuntu 8.04 by using GUI tool or command line option.

apt-get: Command line option

Open terminal.

Type the following command to get updates:
$ sudo apt-get update

To update kernel type the following command:
$ sudo apt-get install linux-image

A note about Ubuntu Server

Type the following command on server system running using Ubuntu 8.04:
$ sudo apt-get install linux-image-server

GUI option

Synaptic is a frontend for the apt package managent system. It allows you to perform all actions of the command line tool apt-get in a graphical environment. This includes installing, upgrading, downgrading and removing of single packages or even upgrading your whole system.

Click on System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager

First reload the package information to be aware of the latest versions available. Click on Reload in the toolbar.

Now, you can search for linux-image or linux-image-server using quick search box. Once package found, click on it and select ‘mark for upgrade’ option. Click on Apply in the toolbar to install updated version. You are asked for confirmation. Check the summarized changes that will be applied. To continue with the actual upgrade confirm the changes click on Apply.