The three versions of the Ubuntu logo.
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ZDNET's key takeaways
- Ubuntu Server is an excellent option for self-hosting.
- With just a few tweaks, you can make this distro much easier.
- All of these options can be done for free.
Ubuntu Server is my go-to for self-hosting. A big reason for this is that I've worked with this distribution for years, so I know it like the back of my hand. The other reason is that Ubuntu Server is the easiest server OS to work with, especially when you take a moment or two to make a few tweaks.
Before you start to question my sanity, these tweaks are actually fairly easy to do. In fact, these tweaks are so simple and effective that I almost always use each of them. The only time I might not apply all of these is when my primary access to the server is via SSH (you'll get this in a moment).
If you're starting to think that self-hosting is something you want to look into, keep reading because I have just the tips you need to make it easier with Ubuntu Server.
Also: 7 things I never do after I install Linux (and why you shouldn't either)
If you've not already installed Ubuntu Server, take a look at my article, “How to install Ubuntu Server in under 30 minutes.”
1. Install a desktop environment
By default, Ubuntu Server doesn't include a desktop environment. Because of that, you need to be very familiar and comfortable with the command line.
Or you can install a desktop environment.
In my opinion, this is the single easiest way to make Ubuntu Server easier, especially if you're relatively new to Linux. Having a GUI desktop will strip away the fear of having to use the command line, because you'll have plenty of apps to use (such as the file manager, user manager, GUI app store, and much more).
If you want to install a desktop environment on Ubuntu server, the best way to do it is via the command line with the following:
sudo apt-get install tasksel dialog -y
Once installed, run the tool with:
sudo tasksel
In the resulting window, you can install the desktop environment of your choice.
Also: Why the latest Ubuntu update put a smile on my face
Once installed, reboot the computer (sudo reboot) and enjoy that desktop.
2. Install Cockpit
While a desktop environment makes it easier for you to use Linux, Cockpit is a web-based GUI that makes using Ubuntu Server even easier.
Cockpit simplifies tasks such as logs, storage, networking, user accounts, services, applications, updates, and more. You can also install modules to extend the feature set. There are modules for Samba, Docker, backups, and diagnostics, to name a few.
Cockpit really does make managing your server much easier. You won't have to bother with editing configuration files for a lot of services; you get a real-time dashboard of health, usage, and system information, and more.
Also: My 6 must-have Linux apps for productivity, and why they make work easier
To install Cockpit, go back to the terminal and issue the command:
sudo apt-get install cockpit -y
Once installed, you have to enable it with:
sudo systemctl enable cockpit.socket
You can then open a web browser and point it to either http://localhost:9090 or http://SERVER:9090 (Where SERVER is the IP address of your Ubuntu Server instance).
3. Make use of Snap packages
Snap packages are Ubuntu's version of the universal package manager and greatly simplify the installation of certain services/apps. For instance, instead of installing Nextcloud manually, you could simply install it with:
sudo snap install nextcloud
Because Snap packages are automatically updated, you don't have to worry about manually installing them. That's right, Snap packages do a great job of simplifying things.
Do keep in mind that some Snap packages have configuration files that are found in non-standard locations (most of which will be in /var/snap/).
Also: Look, no patches! Why Chainguard OS might be the most secure Linux ever
If you're curious as to what Snap packages are available, make sure to search Snapcraft.
4. Install a firewall GUI
If you've installed a desktop environment, you may as well also install a firewall GUI. You will definitely want to employ a firewall, and what easier way to do so than to have a GUI app to help simplify the task?
Instead of having to run commands to enable and set up your firewall, a GUI makes it a point-and-click experience.
The best firewall GUI for Ubuntu Server is GUFW, which can be installed with:
sudo apt-get install gufw -y
With GUFW, you can easily enable/disable the firewall and create either simple or advanced rules.
5. Configure automatic updates
Instead of having to remember to update Ubuntu Server, you can configure automatic updates. By doing this, you can be certain that your system will be secure with new updates and patches regularly applied.
The best way to do this is to run the dpkg-reconfigure command like so:
sudo dpkg-reconfigure -plow unattended-upgrades
You'll be asked if you want to automatically download and install stable updates. Make sure to select Yes and hit Enter on your keyboard.
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Once you've done that, automatic updates will begin on a regular basis.l
Congratulations, you've just made Ubuntu Server considerably easier for your self-hosting needs.
