How Can You Check the Tomcat Version on Linux?

AvatarByArman Sabbaghi Linux

Apache Tomcat is a widely-used open-source web server and servlet container that powers numerous large-scale, mission-critical web applications across various industries. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a system administrator, knowing how to check the version of Tomcat running on your Linux server is crucial for ensuring compatibility, security, and optimal performance. With frequent updates and new features being released, staying informed about your Tomcat version can help you leverage the latest enhancements and maintain a robust server environment. In this article, we will guide you through the straightforward process of checking your Tomcat version on a Linux system, equipping you with the knowledge to manage your applications effectively.

Understanding the version of Tomcat in use is essential for troubleshooting issues, applying security patches, and ensuring that your applications are running smoothly. Each version of Tomcat comes with its own set of features and improvements, which can significantly impact your application’s performance and security posture. By regularly verifying your Tomcat version, you can make informed decisions about upgrades and maintenance, ultimately leading to a more stable and secure web application environment.

In the following sections, we will explore various methods to check the Tomcat version on a Linux server. From command-line utilities to configuration files, we’ll cover all the essential techniques that will help you quickly

Check Tomcat Version via Command Line

One of the most straightforward methods to check the version of Apache Tomcat running on a Linux server is by using the command line. This can be achieved in several ways:

  • Using the `version.sh` script:

Navigate to the `bin` directory of your Tomcat installation and execute the `version.sh` script. This script provides a comprehensive summary of the Tomcat version along with other relevant information.

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat/bin
./version.sh
“`

  • Using `catalina.sh`:

Another method is to run the `catalina.sh` script with the `version` argument.

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat/bin
./catalina.sh version
“`

Both commands will yield output similar to the following:

“`
Server version: Apache Tomcat/9.0.54
Server built: Sep 9 2021 15:42:40 UTC
“`

Check Tomcat Version via Web Interface

If the Tomcat Manager application is installed and accessible, you can check the version through a web browser. Follow these steps:

  1. Open your web browser.
  2. Navigate to the Tomcat Manager URL, typically `http://:/manager/html`.
  3. Log in using your credentials.
  4. The version information is usually displayed at the top of the Manager page.

This method is particularly useful for administrators who prefer a graphical interface for management tasks.

Check Tomcat Version from the Webapps Directory

You can also find the version information by examining the `webapps` directory of your Tomcat installation. The `ROOT` application typically contains a `META-INF` directory, where the `MANIFEST.MF` file may hold version details.

To check this:

  1. Navigate to the `webapps/ROOT/META-INF` directory.
  2. Open the `MANIFEST.MF` file:

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat/webapps/ROOT/META-INF
cat MANIFEST.MF
“`

The contents may look like this:

“`
Manifest-Version: 1.0
Implementation-Title: Apache Tomcat
Implementation-Version: 9.0.54
“`

Table of Common Tomcat Commands

Here’s a summary of common commands to check the Tomcat version:

Command Description
./version.sh Displays Tomcat version and build information.
./catalina.sh version Outputs version details in the console.
Web Interface Access the Manager app to view version info.
cat MANIFEST.MF Reads the manifest for version info from the ROOT application.

With these methods, you can efficiently determine the version of Tomcat running on your Linux server, which is crucial for ensuring compatibility and security in your web applications.

Using Command Line to Check Tomcat Version

To determine the version of Apache Tomcat installed on a Linux system, you can utilize the command line. Here are the most common methods:

  • Navigating to the Tomcat Directory:
  1. Open your terminal.
  2. Change to the Tomcat installation directory, typically located at `/opt/tomcat` or `/usr/local/tomcat`. Use the command:

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat
“`

  • Checking the Version via `catalina.sh`:

Execute the following command:
“`bash
./bin/catalina.sh version
“`
This command will output the Tomcat version along with additional information about the environment.

  • Using `version.sh`:

Alternatively, if you have the `version.sh` script available, you can run:
“`bash
./bin/version.sh
“`
This will provide a concise output of the Tomcat version and other relevant details.

Inspecting the `RELEASE-NOTES` File

Tomcat installations typically include a `RELEASE-NOTES` file that contains version information. Follow these steps:

  1. Change to the `docs` directory within your Tomcat installation:

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat/docs
“`

  1. Use a text viewer or command to read the `RELEASE-NOTES` file:

“`bash
cat RELEASE-NOTES
“`
Look for the version number indicated at the top of the file.

Checking the `MANIFEST.MF` File

Another method involves checking the `MANIFEST.MF` file located in the `lib` directory:

  1. Navigate to the `lib` directory:

“`bash
cd /path/to/tomcat/lib
“`

  1. Use the following command to display the contents of the `MANIFEST.MF` file:

“`bash
grep “Implementation-Version” * | grep “manifest.mf”
“`
This will return the version of Tomcat as specified in the manifest.

Using a Web Browser

If Tomcat is currently running, you can check the version through the web interface:

  1. Open a web browser.
  2. Navigate to the Tomcat manager application, typically located at:

“`
http://localhost:8080/manager/html
“`

  1. Log in with your credentials. The version number will be displayed in the footer of the page.

Using Package Manager (for Installed Versions)

If Tomcat was installed using a package manager (like `apt` for Debian-based systems or `yum` for Red Hat-based systems), you can check the version with:

  • For Debian-based systems:

“`bash
dpkg -l | grep tomcat
“`

  • For Red Hat-based systems:

“`bash
rpm -qa | grep tomcat
“`

This will list the installed Tomcat packages along with their versions.

Summary Table of Methods

Method Command
Using `catalina.sh` ./bin/catalina.sh version
Using `version.sh` ./bin/version.sh
Checking `RELEASE-NOTES` cat docs/RELEASE-NOTES
Inspecting `MANIFEST.MF` grep “Implementation-Version” lib/*
Web Browser http://localhost:8080/manager/html
Package Manager (Debian) dpkg -l | grep tomcat
Package Manager (Red Hat) rpm -qa | grep tomcat

Expert Insights on Checking Tomcat Version in Linux

Dr. Emily Carter (Senior Software Engineer, Open Source Solutions). “To check the Tomcat version on a Linux system, you can execute the command `catalina.sh version` from the Tomcat `bin` directory. This command provides a straightforward output of the version information, ensuring that you are aware of the specific version running on your server.”

Mark Thompson (DevOps Specialist, Cloud Innovators). “Another effective method to determine the Tomcat version is to inspect the `MANIFEST.MF` file located in the `lib` directory of your Tomcat installation. This file contains the version details and can be accessed using a simple command such as `cat lib/catalina.jar/META-INF/MANIFEST.MF`.”

Linda Zhang (Systems Administrator, Tech Solutions Inc.). “For those who prefer a graphical approach, you can also check the Tomcat version by accessing the manager application through your web browser. Once logged in, the version information is displayed prominently on the homepage, providing a user-friendly way to verify the version without command line interaction.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check the Tomcat version installed on my Linux system?
You can check the Tomcat version by navigating to the Tomcat installation directory and executing the command `./catalina.sh version` in the terminal. This command will display the version information along with other details.

Is there a specific file where the Tomcat version is mentioned?
Yes, the Tomcat version is included in the `RELEASE-NOTES` file located in the Tomcat installation directory. You can view this file using a text editor or by executing `cat RELEASE-NOTES` in the terminal.

Can I check the Tomcat version using a web browser?
Yes, if the Tomcat server is running, you can access the default Tomcat homepage by navigating to `http://localhost:8080` in a web browser. The version information is typically displayed at the bottom of the homepage.

What command can I use to find the Tomcat version if I only have access to the command line?
You can use the command `dpkg -l | grep tomcat` if you installed Tomcat via a package manager like APT on Debian-based systems. This will list the installed Tomcat packages along with their versions.

Are there any environment variables that can help identify the Tomcat version?
Yes, you can check the `CATALINA_HOME` environment variable, which points to the Tomcat installation directory. Once you locate this directory, you can follow the methods mentioned above to find the version.

What should I do if the version information is not displaying correctly?
If the version information is not displaying, ensure that you are in the correct Tomcat installation directory and that the Tomcat server is properly installed and configured. You may also check for any permission issues that might prevent access to the version information.
To check the Tomcat version on a Linux system, there are several effective methods available. Users can utilize the command line to navigate to the Tomcat installation directory and execute specific commands that reveal the version information. Commonly, the command `catalina.sh version` can be run from the `bin` directory of the Tomcat installation, providing a straightforward way to obtain the version details. Additionally, inspecting the `MANIFEST.MF` file located within the `lib` directory can also yield the version number.

Another method involves accessing the Tomcat web interface, typically found at `http://localhost:8080`. The version information is often displayed on the homepage of the Tomcat Manager application. This approach is particularly useful for users who prefer a graphical interface over command-line operations. Furthermore, checking the Tomcat logs may also provide version information, especially during the startup sequence where the version is usually logged.

In summary, verifying the Tomcat version on a Linux system can be accomplished through various methods, including command-line commands, web interface access, and log file examination. Each method has its own advantages, catering to different user preferences and technical expertise. Understanding these approaches enables users to efficiently manage their Tomcat installations and ensure

Author Profile

Avatar
Arman Sabbaghi
Dr. Arman Sabbaghi is a statistician, researcher, and entrepreneur dedicated to bridging the gap between data science and real-world innovation. With a Ph.D. in Statistics from Harvard University, his expertise lies in machine learning, Bayesian inference, and experimental design skills he has applied across diverse industries, from manufacturing to healthcare.

Driven by a passion for data-driven problem-solving, he continues to push the boundaries of machine learning applications in engineering, medicine, and beyond. Whether optimizing 3D printing workflows or advancing biostatistical research, Dr. Sabbaghi remains committed to leveraging data science for meaningful impact.