Setting Up Ubuntu Server 20.04: A Step-by-Step Guide for Linux Newbies

Setting up Ubuntu Server 20.04 requires downloading the ISO, creating bootable media, and running the interactive installer to configure networking, users, and SSH access. This guide covers the essential steps for a fresh installation on physical hardware or virtual machines, ensuring a secure and functional base system without unnecessary complexity.

Preparation and Installation Media

Before beginning, ensure you have downloaded the correct Ubuntu Server 20.04 LTS ISO file from the official Ubuntu website. You will need this image to create bootable media. For most users, using balenaEtcher on Windows or macOS is the simplest method to write the ISO to a USB drive. On Linux, you can use the command line with dd. Insert the USB drive into your target machine. Restart the computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing the appropriate key (often F2, F12, Del, or Esc) during boot. Change the boot order to prioritize the USB drive. Save changes and exit. The system should now boot from the USB stick, presenting the Ubuntu Server installer menu.

The Interactive Installer Process

The Ubuntu Server installer is text-based and straightforward. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Select Language: Choose your preferred language for the installer interface.
2. Keyboard Configuration: Select your keyboard layout. Most users can choose "Us English" or their specific regional variant.
3. Network Connections: Ensure your network cable is connected. If using DHCP, the installer will automatically obtain an IP address. If you require a static IP, select "Configure Network Connection" before proceeding. Note that configuring networking here affects future SSH access.
4. Proxy Settings: If your network requires a proxy server, enter the details here. Otherwise, leave it blank.
5. Mirror Settings: Accept the default mirror unless you have a specific local repository preference.
6. Storage Configuration: By default, the installer uses "Guided - use entire disk." This wipes the selected drive. If you need manual partitioning, choose "Custom storage layout." Be extremely careful here to avoid data loss.
7. Profile Setup: Enter your full name, username, and password. The username must be lowercase. This user will have sudo privileges by default.
8. SSH Configuration: Check the box to "Install OpenSSH server." This allows remote management. Without this, you must log in locally every time. Set a strong password for the root account if prompted, though direct root login is disabled by default for security.
9. Featured Snaps: You can choose to install additional software packages like LAMP server or Docker. For a clean base system, leave this unchecked.

Once the configuration is complete, the installer will copy files and install the base system. When finished, remove the USB drive and reboot.

Post-Installation Security and Updates

After logging in for the first time, your immediate priority is updating the system and securing the firewall. Run the following commands to update package lists and upgrade installed packages:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

Next, configure the Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW). Ubuntu Server comes with UFW pre-installed but inactive. Enable it to block unauthorized access while allowing SSH traffic:

sudo ufw allow OpenSSH
sudo ufw enable

Verify the status with sudo ufw status. It should show "Active" and list OpenSSH as allowed. For enhanced security, consider generating SSH keys and disabling password authentication. Edit the SSH config file:

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Set PasswordAuthentication no and restart the service with sudo systemctl restart ssh. Always test your connection from another machine before closing the current session to avoid being locked out.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Regular maintenance ensures stability. Schedule automatic security updates using unattended-upgrades, which is often enabled by default. To check its status, run dpkg -l | grep unattended-upgrades. If you encounter issues after installation, refer to related guides for specific scenarios. For example, if you are trying to host a web application, check Unintended Ubuntu Server Access on Port 8080: WeKan Instance for troubleshooting port conflicts. Similarly, if you need to manage shared storage, see Storing Photos on a WD Home Drive (Linux) for a Shared PUBLIC Folder in a Running Ubuntu 20.4 Server for volume management tips. Avoid generic advice about "keeping the system clean" without concrete steps. Focus on monitoring logs with journalctl -xe if services fail to start. Remember that Ubuntu 20.04 reaches end-of-life in April 2025 for standard support, so plan your migration path accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reset my password if I forgot it?

Reboot the server and edit the kernel parameters in the GRUB menu by pressing 'e'. Add rw init=/bin/bash to the linux line. Mount the filesystem as read-write and use the passwd command to change the password. Reboot normally afterward.

Can I install a GUI on Ubuntu Server?

Yes, but it is not recommended for production servers due to resource overhead. You can install a desktop environment like GNOME or XFCE using sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop-minimal. However, headless management via SSH is more efficient and secure.

Why can't I SSH into my server after installation?

Ensure the OpenSSH server was selected during installation. Verify that UFW is not blocking port 22. Check the server's IP address with ip addr and confirm it matches the client's connection attempt. DNS resolution issues may also prevent SSH connections.

Is Ubuntu 20.04 still supported?

Standard support for Ubuntu 20.04 ends in April 2025. Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) is available for subscribers. For new deployments, consider Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04 LTS for longer support periods. Plan your upgrade strategy well before the EOL date.