Introduction
Ubuntu has long been one of the most popular Linux distributions in the world — not just on desktops, but especially in the server space. With the release of Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, Canonical continues its mission to deliver a modern, secure, and flexible server operating system suitable for nearly any use case: from web hosting and databases to containerization, virtualization, and cloud deployments.This tutorial is aimed at both beginners and intermediate users who want to set up a reliable Ubuntu 24 server, either on a VPS, a dedicated server, or even a home lab. We'll cover everything from the installation process to security, package management, server roles, and long-term maintenance — with real-world examples and tips along the way.
Whether you're building your first Linux server or upgrading an existing one, this guide will help you understand why Ubuntu 24 is one of the top choices in the server world — and how to get the most out of it.
Overview
- History & philosophy of Ubuntu
- Connection to Debian
- Canonical’s role and commercial support
- Target audience (cloud, VPS, home labs, enterprises)
Installation
- System requirements (CPU, RAM, disk, etc.)
- Where to download (official ISO, Netboot)
- Installation methods: Live ISO, minimal install, automated install (Autoinstall)
- Step-by-step installation guide (with screenshots or terminal if desired)
Post-Installation Setup
- Setting up sudo users
- Updating the system
- Basic security setup (firewall, fail2ban, SSH config)
- Enabling automatic security updates
- Setting hostname and static IP (if needed)
Package Management
- APT package manager basics
- Snap packages (what they are, pros and cons)
- Enabling universe/multiverse repositories
- Installing and removing software (with examples)
System Performance
- System resource usage (RAM, CPU, idle stats)
- Boot time, service management via systemd
- Monitoring tools: htop, glances, iotop, etc.
Security Features
- UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall)
- AppArmor basics
- Fail2Ban setup
- SSH hardening
- Canonical Livepatch (for kernel updates without reboot)
Use Cases & Server Roles
- Web server setup (Apache/Nginx)
- Database server (MySQL/MariaDB/PostgreSQL)
- Docker & containers
- Virtualization (KVM/Libvirt)
- Cloud integration (Ubuntu Pro, AWS, GCP, Azure)
Maintenance & Updates
- How to safely update your server
- Managing kernels
- Ubuntu LTS lifecycle (5+ years support)
- Backup strategies
Conclusion
- Pros & cons of Ubuntu 24 Server
- When Ubuntu is the right choice
- Final thoughts and recommendation
Appendix (Optional)
- Useful commands
- Links to official docs & community
- Common troubleshooting tips
Overview
Ubuntu is a Debian-based Linux distribution developed by Canonical Ltd., with a strong focus on ease of use, security, and regular release cycles. While it's widely known for its desktop edition, Ubuntu's Server version has become a top choice for developers, system administrators, and companies around the world.
What is Ubuntu 24.04 LTS?
Ubuntu 24.04, codenamed "Noble Numbat", is a Long Term Support (LTS) release. That means it will receive official updates, bug fixes, and security patches for at least 5 years (until 2029), with optional extended support for up to 10 years through Ubuntu Pro.
LTS versions are recommended for server environments because of their long-term stability and support guarantees.
Backed by Canonical
Canonical provides both free and commercial support for Ubuntu. You can run Ubuntu for free, but also choose paid services like:
- Ubuntu Pro – Enhanced security, kernel Livepatch, compliance tools
- Landscape – Server management and monitoring platform
- Cloud support – Ubuntu is the most popular OS image on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
This makes Ubuntu a solid choice whether you're managing a personal server or deploying in an enterprise environment.
Huge Community & Ecosystem
Ubuntu has one of the largest Linux communities in the world. That means:
- Tons of tutorials, forums, and help available
- Most third-party tools officially support Ubuntu
- Packages and container images are often Ubuntu-first
Regular Release Cycle
Canonical releases a new Ubuntu version every 6 months, and every two years there's an LTS release. Ubuntu 24.04 is an LTS release, making it ideal for long-term use on servers.
Release rhythm:
- Regular releases: Supported for 9 months
- LTS releases: Supported for 5 years (desktop & server)
Who is Ubuntu Server for?
Ubuntu Server is ideal for:
- Beginners learning Linux server management
- Developers needing a stable environment for web or app hosting
- System admins managing VPS or cloud infrastructure
- Enterprises needing a consistent, secure platform across multiple machines
Whether you're hosting a website, running a database, setting up a home server, or building a cloud-native stack — Ubuntu 24 has everything you need to get started and grow.
Summary – Why Ubuntu 24 is a Top Server OS
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS combines long-term stability with modern features, making it one of the most reliable and accessible Linux server operating systems available today. Backed by Canonical and supported by a massive global community, it's well-suited for a wide range of use cases — from personal VPS hosting to enterprise cloud infrastructure.
Its predictable release cycle, extended support, and ease of use make it a top choice for both beginners and professionals who need a secure and powerful server platform they can depend on for years to come.
