How to upgrade Raspberry Pi OS

Raspberry Pi software is the smallest OS that can be executed in the hardware components that will take the size of a credit card altogether. On the brighter side, it offers enhanced performance, better user experience and security. Since its first launch in 2012, there have been certain upgrades and its last version was released in 2024 (Bookworm 12) v6.6.51 Linux Kernel.

Once you download the OS for Raspberry Pi, you might find it more fun and easy to use every day. So, if you're running on an older version of Raspberry Pi OS then, upgrading Raspberry Pi is not a big deal.

This article is intended to look at the commands needed for the Raspberry Pi Upgradation to Latest Version without having any issues.

Prerequisites:

1. A stable Internet Connection

2. Raspberry Pi Device ( such as Pi 4 or 5)

3. Back up: Create a backup within SD card to avoid data loss

If possible, get an external mouse and keyboard

Steps to Check Raspberry OS Version (Current)

Before you begin the Raspberry Pi degradation, you need to check the current running version by following these easy steps:

1. Access Terminal using Ctrl + Alt + T or Ctrl + Shft + T. If you want to open a fresh tab, you can press Ctrl + Shift + N
2. Execute the following command:

cat /etc/os-release

Note: Now, look for the line VERSION_ID to check the installed version.

Method 1: Upgrade Raspberry Pi Software using Manual Method

We will start with the Manual Method where the use of commands is higher than the Automatic One. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Open Terminal and execute the following command

Open Terminal using Ctrl + Alt + T or Ctrl + Shft + T and run the following command first:

sudo apt update
sudo apt dist-upgrade -y

Step 2: Run the Firmware Update

This will update the interface of Raspberry Pi OS.

Command: sudo rpi-update

Step 3: Execute the "sudo nano" Command and Paste into the Editor

Now, execute the command as "sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list". Now, copy the following statement & paste it into the editor that is opened. Once pasted, press CTRL + O to save & close.

Command: deb http://raspbian.raspberrypi.org/raspbian/ bullseye main contrib non-free rpi

Step 4: Update using sudo apt

Now, update the Raspberry Pi OS using the command mentioned below.

Command: sudo apt dist-upgrade

Method 2: Using apt update

This method will ensure that your system has the latest repository information. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Press Ctrl + Alt + T or Ctrl + Shft + T to open the Terminal

Run the following command to update the Raspberry Pi packages:

Command: sudo apt update

Step 2: Update using apt full-upgrade

Execute the following command. This will update the Raspberry Pi to the version that is available for the device.

Command: sudo apt full-upgrade

Step 3: Restart your Device

Once you upgrade the available version of Raspberry OS, you will be required to reboot your device. Use the following command:

Command: sudo reboot

Method 3: Using Imager

This method is suitable for those who wish to get a fresh Raspberry Pi OS. Here's how to perform this action in a few easy steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website to get Raspberry Pi

Go to Official website, select the preferred OS version of Raspberry Pi imager

Step 2: Start downloading the Raspberry Pi Imager

Now select the version, click on "Download" and select the location

Step 3: Insert SD card to Finish the set up

Get an SD card (formatted FAT32) and select the latest Raspberry Pi OS version and complete the installation process. Click WRITE to flash the new OS version in your system.

So, these are the three simple methods needed to Update Raspberry Pi to Newer Version. We will recommend you use the Automatic Method for Raspberry Pi upgradation. As in the Manual Method, the Version of Raspberry Pi upgradation is to be set by the user which might sometimes cause problems.