A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Ubuntu Server on Proxmox

Introduction

Once you've successfully configured Proxmox to create a virtual environment, it’s time to unleash the full potential of your server by installing Ubuntu Server. This powerful operating system is perfect for a range of applications, from web hosting to database management, making it an essential tool for developers and system administrators alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire installation process of Ubuntu Server on your Proxmox virtual machine. You'll find detailed instructions, helpful commands, and useful tips to ensure a smooth installation. Whether you're a seasoned IT professional or a newcomer to server management, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to set up your Ubuntu Server efficiently and effectively.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure you have the following:

Proxmox VE Installed: Your virtualization environment should be set up and accessible. If you need guidance, check out this guide on installing Proxmox VE.
Ubuntu Server ISO: Download the latest version from the official Ubuntu website.
Access to Proxmox Web Interface: You’ll need to log in to the Proxmox web interface to create your VM. For a detailed guide on creating a VM, refer to this guide on creating a VM in Proxmox.

Step 1: Boot from Installation Media

To begin the installation, you need to boot the virtual machine (VM) using the Ubuntu Server ISO file you uploaded to your Proxmox environment.

Start the VM: Ensure your VM is set to boot from the Ubuntu Server ISO.
Select "Install Ubuntu Server": When the boot menu appears, navigate to this option using your keyboard and press Enter. This action will initiate the installation process.

Step 2: Language Selection

The installation will first prompt you to select a language. This setting determines the language used for the installation process and the default language for the server.

Choose Your Language: Use the arrow keys to select your preferred language (e.g., English) and press Enter. This selection will guide the installer throughout the remaining steps.

Step 3: Keyboard Layout

Choosing the correct keyboard layout is essential for entering commands and text accurately during and after installation.

Select Keyboard Layout: You can either accept the default layout or choose "Detect Keyboard Layout" for automatic detection. If you prefer a specific layout, select it from the list and press Enter.

Step 4: Network Configuration

Configuring the network settings is crucial for your server to communicate with other devices on your network and the internet.

Automatic Configuration: If your network uses DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), the installer will attempt to configure the network settings automatically.

Manual Configuration: If you prefer to set a static IP address, choose to configure it manually:
IP Address: Enter the desired static IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.100).
Netmask: Typically, this is 255.255.255.0, which is common for home networks.
Gateway: Input your router's IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
DNS Servers: You can enter a public DNS server, such as 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS), to ensure proper domain name resolution.

Step 5: Storage Configuration

The storage configuration step allows you to determine how your disk will be set up for the operating system.

Select Storage Option: When prompted, choose Use an entire disk to simplify the installation process.
Select Disk: Highlight the disk you wish to use (e.g., /dev/sda) and press Enter.
Confirm Partitioning: The installer will show a warning that selecting this option will erase all data on the disk. Confirm to proceed. The installer typically creates:
A root partition (/), where the operating system and applications will reside.
A swap partition, which is useful for managing memory.

Step 6: User Account Setup

Setting up a user account is critical for managing your server securely.

Enter Your Name: Input your full name; this is used to create a user account.
Choose a Username: Enter a username (e.g., admin) for your new account.
Set Password: Create a password for this account. Ensure it is strong and memorable, as this will be your primary means of accessing the server.

Step 7: SSH Server Installation (Optional)

Installing OpenSSH server is highly recommended for remote management of your server.

Install OpenSSH Server: When prompted, choose "Yes" to install OpenSSH server. This package enables secure remote access via SSH, allowing you to manage the server from another machine.

Step 8: Select Featured Server Snaps (Optional)

Ubuntu offers several pre-packaged applications, known as snaps, that can simplify installation and setup.

Choose Additional Packages: The installer will present options like Docker, Nextcloud, and others. You can select any that are relevant to your needs, or skip this step if you prefer to install applications later.

Step 9: Install Updates

Keeping your server updated is vital for security and stability.

Automatic Updates: You’ll have the option to enable automatic updates during installation. If selected, your server will automatically install security updates as they become available, helping to keep your system secure.

Step 10: Confirm Installation

Before the installation begins, you will see a summary of all your selections.

Review Your Choices: Carefully review the configuration settings. Ensure that the language, keyboard layout, network settings, storage configuration, and user account details are all correct.
Confirm Installation: If everything looks good, select "Install" to start the installation process. This may take several minutes as the system installs necessary packages and configures the OS.

Step 11: Reboot After Installation

Once the installation is complete, the system will prompt you to reboot.

Remove Installation Media: If prompted, make sure to remove the installation media (ISO) to prevent the system from booting from it again.
Reboot: Choose to reboot the server, and it will restart into your new Ubuntu Server installation.

Step 12: Log In

After rebooting, you’ll need to log in to your newly installed server.

Access the Server: At the login prompt, enter the username and password you created during setup. This will grant you access to the command line interface, where you can begin configuring your server.

Post-Installation Configuration

Update Package List: After logging in, it’s a good practice to ensure your package list is current. Run (Note: This command refreshes the package database with the latest information from the repositories):

> sudo apt update

Upgrade Installed Packages: You may also want to upgrade any installed packages to their latest versions (This command upgrades all installed packages, ensuring your server has the latest features and security patches):

> sudo apt upgrade

Reboot Again (if required): If any critical updates were installed, you might need to reboot:

> sudo reboot

Conclusion

You have successfully installed Ubuntu Server! With your server now operational, you can configure it to meet your specific needs, whether it's a web server, database server, file server, or another application.

Feel free to explore additional software installations, security configurations, or networking setups based on your project requirements. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy server managing!