Kernel Question

[antiquexray]

When I boot, I see 4 kernels listed.

2.6.20-16-generic
2.6.20-16-generic (recovery mode)
2.6.20-15-generic
2.6.20-15-generic (recovery mode)

I can make an educated guess at the recovery mode, but why the different kernels? Do I need the 15? Is there a problem deleting it?

[scorp123]

but why the different kernels? Do I need the 15?

That's about safety. New versions mean: new bugs. So it could happen in some rare cases that on someone's system the newest kernel may produce strange errors and do unexpected things .... Having the previous version still in the menu is therefore a good thing as it allows you to boot into it if anything goes wrong with the new version.

I'd leave these things "as is" and not touch it unless you really really know what you do.

[antiquexray]

but why the different kernels? Do I need the 15?

That's about safety. New versions mean: new bugs. So it could happen in some rare cases that on someone's system the newest kernel may produce strange errors and do unexpected things .... Having the previous version still in the menu is therefore a good thing as it allows you to boot into it if anything goes wrong with the new version.

I'd leave these things "as is" and not touch it unless you really really know what you do.

I've learned to value your advice. I'll leave it alone. Thanks.