How to Check CPU Temperature on Linux and Windows Servers? Print

Introduction

Monitoring your CPU temperature is crucial for ensuring server health and system performance. High CPU temperatures can lead to thermal throttling or hardware damage. This guide explains how to check CPU temperature on Linux and Windows servers using various tools and commands.

Checking CPU Temperature on Linux

1. General Requirements

Before running any commands, ensure you have the required packages installed. Most commands need lm-sensors or similar utilities.

2. Commands by Distribution

Ubuntu/Debian

sudo apt update
sudo apt install lm-sensors
sudo sensors-detect
sensors

CentOS/RHEL

sudo yum install lm_sensors
sudo sensors-detect
sensors

Fedora

sudo dnf install lm_sensors
sudo sensors-detect
sensors

Arch Linux

sudo pacman -S lm_sensors
sudo sensors-detect
sensors

3. Using Psensor for a GUI

For users who prefer a graphical interface:

sudo apt install psensor

After installation, launch Psensor to monitor temperatures in real time.

4. Using hwmon Files

You can directly read temperature data from /sys/class/hwmon:

cat /sys/class/hwmon/hwmon*/temp*_input

5. Using watch for Continuous Monitoring

Use the watch command to monitor temperature in real time:

watch -n 1 sensors

Checking CPU Temperature on Windows

1. Using Third-Party Tools

Unlike Linux, Windows does not provide built-in tools to check CPU temperature. You can use the following third-party applications:

HWMonitor

A free tool for monitoring CPU and other hardware temperatures:

• Download HWMonitor from CPUID.
• Install and run the application to view temperature readings.

Core Temp

A lightweight utility for monitoring CPU temperatures:

• Download Core Temp from ALCPU.
• Install an d launch the software to check CPU temperature.

2. Using BIOS/UEFI

Many Windows servers provide CPU temperature readings through BIOS/UEFI:

• Restart your server.
• Enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing the designated key (e.g., F2, Delete, or Esc).
• Navigate to the hardware monitoring or system health section to check CPU temperature.

Conclusion

Monitoring CPU temperature is vital for server reliability and performance. Linux users can leverage command-line utilities like sensors, while Windows users can rely on third-party tools or BIOS/UEFI settings. Regular monitoring helps prevent overheating and ensures system longevity.