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Multiversion kernel package handling with 'purge-kernel.service'

This document (000021728) is provided subject to the disclaimer at the end of this document.

Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15


Situation

Updating or installing kernel packages increases file system usage.

 

Resolution

Systemd service 'purge-kernel.service" need to be installed and enabled 
(default for a new installation)

To enable:

systemctl enable purge-kernel.service


Config file /etc/zypp/zypp.conf need to have the following lines:
(default for a fresh install - see comments in config file)

multiversion = provides:multiversion(kernel)
multiversion.kernels = latest,latest-1,running

After a reboot, kernels exceeding configured numbers are beeing purged.

If a reboot is not possible  the cleanup can be performed manually:

systemctl start purge-kernel.service

 

 
 

 

 

Cause

Old kernel packages will not be removed, which may cause the disk to fill up and therefore may cause operational problems later on.

 

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.

  • Document ID:000021728
  • Creation Date: 04-Mar-2025
  • Modified Date:05-Mar-2025
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server for SAP Applications

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