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Ubuntu - Server Installation

Ubuntu - Server Installation (Modern LTS)

Section titled “Ubuntu - Server Installation (Modern LTS)”

Ubuntu Server is a popular choice for hosting applications, websites, databases, and various other services. This guide outlines the general steps for installing a modern Long-Term Support (LTS) version of Ubuntu Server (e.g., 22.04 LTS or 24.04 LTS). LTS versions are recommended for servers due to their extended support and stability.

Step 1: Download Ubuntu Server

Visit the official Ubuntu website (ubuntu.com/download/server) and download the ISO image for the latest LTS version. Choose the appropriate architecture (usually 64-bit x86, named amd64).

Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive

Once the ISO is downloaded, create a bootable USB drive using tools like BalenaEtcher, Rufus (on Windows), or dd (on Linux/macOS). This USB drive will be used to boot the server and start the installation.

Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive

Insert the bootable USB drive into the target server. Restart the server and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing Del, F2, F10, or F12 during startup) to change the boot order, ensuring it boots from the USB drive first.

Step 4: Start the Installation

After booting from the USB, you’ll see the Ubuntu Server installer menu. Select ‘Install Ubuntu Server’ or a similar option.

Step 5: Language Selection

Choose your preferred language for the installation process. This will also set the default language for the installed system.

Step 6: Keyboard Layout

Select your keyboard layout. You can often let the installer detect it or choose it manually from a list.

Step 7: Network Configuration

Configure your network interface. DHCP is usually enabled by default and will attempt to get an IP address automatically. You can also configure a static IP address if needed. Ensure your server has internet connectivity for downloading updates and packages.

Step 8: Proxy Configuration (Optional)

If your network requires a proxy to access the internet, enter the proxy details here. Otherwise, leave it blank.

Step 9: Ubuntu Archive Mirror

The installer will suggest a default Ubuntu archive mirror based on your location. You can usually accept the default.

Step 10: Storage Configuration (Partitioning)

This is a critical step. You have several options:

  • Use entire disk: This will erase the selected disk and set up partitions automatically. This is common for dedicated servers.
  • Use entire disk and set up LVM: LVM (Logical Volume Management) provides flexibility for resizing partitions later. Recommended for most server setups.
  • Manual partitioning: For advanced users who want to define custom partition layouts.

Confirm your choices, as this step may erase data on the selected disk(s).

Step 11: Profile Setup

Enter your name, a name for the server (hostname), a username for your primary user account, and a strong password for this user. This user will have sudo privileges.

Step 12: SSH Setup

It is highly recommended to install the OpenSSH server. This allows you to remotely connect to and manage your server via SSH. You can also import SSH keys from GitHub or Launchpad if you use them.

Step 13: Featured Server Snaps (Optional)

The installer may offer to install popular server applications as Snaps (e.g., Docker, Nextcloud). You can select any you need or skip this for now and install them later.

Step 14: Installation Progress

The system will now install Ubuntu Server. This process involves copying files, setting up the system, and installing selected software. You may see options to update the installer or fetch updates during this phase.

Step 15: Installation Complete and Reboot

Once the installation is finished, you will be prompted to reboot the system. Remove the USB installation media when prompted.

Step 16: First Login

After rebooting, you will see a login prompt. Log in with the username and password you created during the installation.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ubuntu Server. You can now start configuring it for your specific needs. For automated deployments, especially in cloud environments, consider learning about cloud-init.

Common post-installation tasks include updating the system (sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade), configuring a firewall (e.g., UFW), and installing necessary services.