The installation of Ubuntu Server is a straightforward process that can be performed immediately. To do this, you need to create a bootable medium using the installation image of the popular open-source operating system. Once created, the installation process is carried out using a graphical wizard, facilitating the initial setup. This article provides a detailed guide on how to proceed with the installation and the first steps to configure the system.
Introduction to Ubuntu Server
The server version of Ubuntu, one of the most recognized Linux distributions, is designed as a minimal platform suitable for various applications, ranging from mail servers and web hosting platforms to file servers. Lacking a graphical user interface, Ubuntu Server consumes fewer resources, making it ideal for environments where performance and efficiency are priorities. This edition requires at least a 1 GHz CPU, 1 GB of RAM, and 2.5 GB of disk space.
Below is the process for installing and configuring Ubuntu Server 22.04.
Step 1: Create a bootable medium for Ubuntu Server
Once the ISO image of the system is downloaded, it must be copied to the chosen installation medium. For those unfamiliar with the process of creating bootable media, Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, offers a helpful guide on its official website, detailing how to do it on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Step 2: Start the installation
With the installation medium created, it’s time to proceed. Connect the bootable USB to the server and turn it on. If using a CD or DVD, insert it and restart the server. After a brief moment, the GNU GRUB boot manager menu will be displayed. From there, select the option “Try or install Ubuntu” to begin the server installation.
Step 3: Select the system language and keyboard layout
Next, the Ubuntu Server installation wizard will start. This wizard has a graphical interface that makes navigation easy. First, you will need to choose the system language, which will also be used during the installation. After that, you need to select the keyboard layout. The user can manually search for their language in the list or use the “Detect keyboard” option for the system to automatically recognize it.
Step 4: Select the variant of the Ubuntu server
At this step, the basis for the installation is established. You can choose the standard installation “Ubuntu Server,” which provides a basic set of software for server management. Alternatively, the option “Ubuntu Server (minimized)” offers an installation that consumes fewer resources, although it lacks some tools; this option is recommended only if the server is planned to be used sparingly. Finally, you should check the corresponding option.
Step 5: Network and proxy configuration
The next stage involves configuring the network connection and the proxy settings for the server. If the server is already connected to a network with an active DHCP server, the network adapter should be configured automatically. If you do not wish to establish a connection immediately, you can continue by selecting “Continue without network.” If a proxy server is required for internet connection, the HTTP proxy address must be entered.
Step 6: Configure the Ubuntu archive mirror
Ubuntu's software packages are constantly updated and are available in the public archive “archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu.” For greater security and load distribution, there are also archive mirrors. If you wish to use a specific mirror, you must enter its address at this step.
Step 7: Manage storage space
This step focuses on configuring the storage space, where you must choose between using a whole hard drive or several partitions. Generally, it is recommended to use the preselected option, which opts for a complete disk. Upon continuing, the wizard will present a summary of the file system. It is common that, even if partitions have not been manually created, Ubuntu reserves some for the system and the boot manager. When confirming the configuration, the system will warn that current data will be deleted, and you must accept this action to continue with the installation.
Step 8: Configure the profile
You will proceed to create a new user account to access the server. It is essential to enter a username, full name, and a strong password. You must also assign a name to the server that will be used in communication with other devices.
Step 9: Configure SSH
SSH is a fundamental tool for securely accessing servers remotely. During the installation of Ubuntu Server, the wizard provides the option to install the OpenSSH package; it is advisable to enable it by checking the corresponding box. Additionally, if you have valid SSH keys from platforms like GitHub or Launchpad, you can proceed to import them.
Step 10: Complete the installation of Ubuntu Server
Once SSH is configured, the wizard will automatically proceed with the final installation. If everything goes as planned, you will see the message “Installation complete.” To finalize the process, you must eject the bootable medium and select the “Reboot now” option.
Conclusion
After completing these steps, the Ubuntu 22.04 server will be ready for use. For those interested in delving deeper into server management, it is recommended to continue learning about additional configurations, such as installing FTP services and much more.
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