The three variations of the Ubuntu brand.
sjvn
Observe ZDNET: Add us as a most well-liked supply on Google.
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Ubuntu Server is a superb possibility for self-hosting.
- With just some tweaks, you can also make this distro a lot simpler.
- All of those choices may be performed free of charge.
Ubuntu Server is my go-to for self-hosting. A giant cause for that is that I’ve labored with this distribution for years, so I do know it just like the again of my hand. The opposite cause is that Ubuntu Server is the simplest server OS to work with, particularly whenever you take a second or two to make a number of tweaks.
Earlier than you begin to query my sanity, these tweaks are literally pretty straightforward to do. In truth, these tweaks are so easy and efficient that I virtually all the time use every of them. The one time I may not apply all of those is when my main entry to the server is by way of SSH (you will get this in a second).
For those who’re beginning to assume that self-hosting is one thing you need to look into, maintain studying as a result of I’ve simply the guidelines it is advisable make it simpler with Ubuntu Server.
Additionally: 7 issues I by no means do after I set up Linux (and why you should not both)
For those who’ve not already put in Ubuntu Server, check out my article, “The best way to set up Ubuntu Server in below half-hour.”
1. Set up a desktop surroundings
By default, Ubuntu Server would not embrace a desktop surroundings. Due to that, it is advisable be very acquainted and comfy with the command line.
Or you possibly can set up a desktop surroundings.
In my view, that is the one best approach to make Ubuntu Server simpler, particularly should you’re comparatively new to Linux. Having a GUI desktop will strip away the concern of getting to make use of the command line, since you’ll have loads of apps to make use of (such because the file supervisor, consumer supervisor, GUI app retailer, and rather more).
If you wish to set up a desktop surroundings on Ubuntu server, the easiest way to do it’s by way of the command line with the next:
sudo apt-get set up tasksel dialog -y
As soon as put in, run the software with:
sudo tasksel
Within the ensuing window, you possibly can set up the desktop surroundings of your alternative.
Additionally: Why the newest Ubuntu replace put a smile on my face
As soon as put in, reboot the pc (sudo reboot) and revel in that desktop.
2. Set up Cockpit
Whereas a desktop surroundings makes it simpler so that you can use Linux, Cockpit is a web-based GUI that makes utilizing Ubuntu Server even simpler.
Cockpit simplifies duties corresponding to logs, storage, networking, consumer accounts, companies, functions, updates, and extra. You may as well set up modules to increase the characteristic set. There are modules for Samba, Docker, backups, and diagnostics, to call a number of.
Cockpit actually does make managing your server a lot simpler. You will not must hassle with modifying configuration recordsdata for lots of companies; you get a real-time dashboard of well being, utilization, and system data, and extra.
Additionally: My 6 must-have Linux apps for productiveness, and why they make work simpler
To put in Cockpit, return to the terminal and situation the command:
sudo apt-get set up cockpit -y
As soon as put in, you need to allow it with:
sudo systemctl allow cockpit.socket
You’ll be able to then open an online browser and level it to both http://localhost:9090 or http://SERVER:9090 (The place SERVER is the IP deal with of your Ubuntu Server occasion).
3. Make use of Snap packages
Snap packages are Ubuntu’s model of the common bundle supervisor and enormously simplify the set up of sure companies/apps. As an illustration, as an alternative of putting in Nextcloud manually, you may merely set up it with:
sudo snap set up nextcloud
As a result of Snap packages are robotically up to date, you do not have to fret about manually putting in them. That is proper, Snap packages do an ideal job of simplifying issues.
Do remember the fact that some Snap packages have configuration recordsdata which might be present in non-standard places (most of which can be in /var/snap/).
Additionally: Look, no patches! Why Chainguard OS could be essentially the most safe Linux ever
For those who’re curious as to what Snap packages can be found, be certain to look Snapcraft.
4. Set up a firewall GUI
For those who’ve put in a desktop surroundings, you could as effectively additionally set up a firewall GUI. You’ll undoubtedly need to make use of a firewall, and what simpler method to take action than to have a GUI app to assist simplify the duty?
As a substitute of getting to run instructions to allow and arrange your firewall, a GUI makes it a point-and-click expertise.
One of the best firewall GUI for Ubuntu Server is GUFW, which may be put in with:
sudo apt-get set up gufw -y
With GUFW, you possibly can simply allow/disable the firewall and create both easy or superior guidelines.
5. Configure automated updates
As a substitute of getting to recollect to replace Ubuntu Server, you possibly can configure automated updates. By doing this, you may be sure that your system can be safe with new updates and patches repeatedly utilized.
The easiest way to do that is to run the dpkg-reconfigure command like so:
sudo dpkg-reconfigure -plow unattended-upgrades
You will be requested if you wish to robotically obtain and set up secure updates. Be certain that to pick Sure and hit Enter in your keyboard.
Additionally: Wish to save your getting older laptop? Strive these 5 Linux distributions
As soon as you’ve got performed that, automated updates will start regularly.l
Congratulations, you’ve got simply made Ubuntu Server significantly simpler to your self-hosting wants.
