Ubuntu VPS is a common operation that is categorized with the Linux operating system. Like other operators, Ubuntu server is open source software that is cheaper to purchase, compare to windows OS. You may want to ask, why are we choosing Ubuntu server, among several options available under Linux OS? Ubuntu server is the most sought VPS among business owners and big organizations, due to its low cost and flexibility. In terms of cloud storage and container, Ubuntu has record to provide satisfactory services. Moreover, Linux operating system is a good option for OS, as it involves various operations, including the Ubuntu server.
What is Ubuntu Server?
Ubuntu server is an open-source and common operating system among users. It has stayed in the virtualization world for a long time and is known for its several advantages. Ubuntu server exists in three forms, which are; Core, Desktop, and Server. Meanwhile, this article focuses on the Ubutu server, with further explanation on the Ubuntu desktop. Before delving further, what is the difference between Ubuntu server and Ubuntu desktop?
Website operating system operates on a single computer, while it’s used to run everyday activities, such as visiting online sites. Meanwhile, the server operating system works with a physical machine. It helps to carry out the activities of various servers hosted on the same physical machine. Also, the server operating system handles multiple tasks beyond daily activity, including sorting server files. Usually, it doesn’t have a Graphical User Interface (GUI). You can operate an Ubuntu server for various purposes, ranging from home functions to enterprise or business purposes.
Furthermore, here are a few difference and similarities between the Ubuntu desktop and Ubuntu server
There are two major differences between the Ubuntu desktop and Ubuntu server, which are seen in the interface used for operations, and the applications available.
- Applications
Ubuntu website uses applications that perform general activities, like a web browser or media operations. Meanwhile, the Ubuntu server operates on highly technical packages, such as mail server, web server, VPN, game server, and forex trading. While the Ubuntu website focuses on the physical machine’s basic functions, the Ubuntu server expands functionality, by allowing users to connect anywhere.
- GUI
As stated above, Ubuntu desktop uses the Graphical user interface, while Ubuntu server operates with the command line interface. Also, most Ubuntu servers operate without using a physically arranged mouse, keyboard, to connect with the physical machine. Meanwhile, the Ubuntu server operates on a high speed, which positively affects a server’s performance. Since the Ubuntu server lacks GUI, it has complex installation process compared to the Ubuntu desktop. Ubuntu desktop installation is similar to much software available today, while Ubuntu server involves some set up and menu.
Having stated the differences in Ubuntu desktop and Ubuntu server, there exist some similarities between them:
The evolvement in technology brought about the use of the same kernel in Ubuntu desktop and Ubuntu server. That is, the similarities allow you to customize the software to your needs. Also, it allows you to install an Ubuntu server, and operate it with Ubuntu desktop physical setup. Despite the rapid knowledge in the modern age, some users find it difficult to operate a headless ubuntu server. Hence, they familiarize themselves with the mouse, keyboard, and other setups. Also, you can install an Ubuntu desktop, and further create an Ubuntu server by adding the required packages.
Initially, Ubuntu server providers give a three years support system, against the five years support system available on the Ubuntu server. Meanwhile, the Ubuntu desktop now enjoys five years support system as well. Nevertheless, you can contact your service provider to extend your support system duration.
The similarities and differences between the Ubuntu desktop and the Ubuntu server mentioned above will help you in making the right choice.
Managed Ubuntu Hosting
As said earlier, the Ubuntu server is a common operation of Linux OS. It can either be managed or unmanaged. Meanwhile, a managed Ubuntu hosting is the best option for starters and IT illiterates. In managed Ubuntu hosting, your service provider performs the overall maintenance duty of your server, including configuration and troubleshooting. Sometimes, the Ubuntu server is restricted by the service provider. Hence, confirm the terms and conditions before deciding on the provider to create your server. However, managed Ubuntu hosting is costlier than unmanaged Ubuntu hosting, but managed hosting saves cost in the long run. Eventually, you might spend more on unmanaged hosting, while paying for the service of an external operator. However, if you have a full team of IT department working for your company, you can opt for the unmanaged VPS plan, which means you are in charge of your Ubuntu server’s full operations. Therefore, here are a few reasons you should choose a managed Ubuntu hosting:
- Regular security updates: In a managed Ubuntu server, your provider guarantees regular security updates. It prevents security breaches, and stops the external attack. Also, it offers SSM, known as standard security maintenance for many years. However, the Ubuntu server allows users to extend the duration of their standard security maintenance.
- Adequate resources: Contrary to shared hosting, Ubuntu server rarely runs out of resources, because it utilizes resources effectively. Meanwhile, Ubuntu server requires a minimum level of hardware requirement, because it doesn’t utilize GUI, and eases scaling up. However, your website needs the resources available. Nevertheless, the Ubuntu server manages users’ resources reasonably.
- Scaling: Among the several VPS operations available, the Ubuntu server is one of the easiest operations that easily scale up to meet website requirements. As a growing business owner, your website would require more resources, since you operate on more RAM. As this goes on, it’s ideal to upgrade your server. Meanwhile, if your server is overpowered, and consumes unnecessary expenses, you can as well scale down your resources. Also, the Ubuntu server allows hyper-scale computing, which means you can share your excess resources across various servers. You should consider the scalability efficiency of your server, as it influences your server’s performance. For instance, when your server has insufficient RAM or CPU to run its activities, it takes a longer time to load, which reduces uptime.
How to Install Ubuntu Desktop on a VPS
Installing Ubuntu desktop on a VPS is simple if you follow the right steps. Meanwhile, the significant similarities between the Ubuntu desktop and Ubuntu server, allow users to migrate easily. Although the Ubuntu server doesn’t operate with a Graphical user interface (GUI), you can install it with appropriate technical-know-how. Meanwhile, GUI reduces the memory space of certain applications that run on VPS; it as well improves the performance of other applications.
1 Update your package
Before going into details of installing Ubuntu desktop on VPS, you should have these three major things, namely; a well-operated server, root access, and apt-get package manager. Meanwhile, update your current package, if it doesn’t permit you to download Ubuntu. Moreover, updating your package allow you to have access to the latest software version.
2. Installation
Go ahead to click on the “Ubuntu download option”. Meanwhile, several versions will be presented to you. You should choose the latest version, and contact your provider for further information. However, you might not have access to some versions, due to your server’s incapacity. Hence, the reason to upgrade your VPS package beforehand. Furthermore, the apt-get package manager allows users to install a specific display manager. A display manager is useful to launch the server desktop and confirm the user’s authentication. Meanwhile, you can only install a single display manager. Hence, if you want a display manager that conserves resources, you should either choose SLiM, SDDM, or LightDM. A display manager such as GDM3 can be resource consuming, and you don’t want your server to experience slow performance due to insufficient resources.
3. Choose a GUI
When choosing a GUI for your server, there are two popular operators in the virtualization world. For Apple users, GNOME is the default GUI many users come across during installation, while Microsoft is usually configured to the KDE default.
If you will be installing GNOME, firstly launch your tasks, and then use the arrow key to locate the Ubuntu desktop. Navigate through the “ok” and “enter” key, to install and reboot your software. Then, enter your login details. Use the F1 button to navigate, if you have several interfaces already installed on your system.
4. Install the Ubuntu desktop
After choosing your preferred interface, the next action is downloading the Ubuntu desktop on your VPS. There are several desktop software you can choose from, including Mate core server desktop, Xubuntu core server desktop, Xfce server core desktop and Lubuntu core server desktop.
After installing the Ubuntu desktop on your VPS, you might want to switch between interfaces. Although only one display manager can run your server, you can use it to navigate between GUI. Hence, when you are about logging in, you will see an option that pops up on the screen, asking for your preferred GUI.
How to Set Up FTP Server on Ubuntu VPS
FTP, meaning a file transfer protocol, uses the IP/TCP protocol to share files and media between computers connected to the internet. Also, FTP ensures the safety of your server, by using an SSL certificate. With FTP, you can guarantee the safety of the data you transfer online. Meanwhile, FTP has similar functions with HTTP and SMTP, known as HyperText Transfer Protocol and Simple Mail Transfer Protocol respectively. Contrary to FTP, HTTP enhances web transfer, and SMTP enhances email transfer. Also, FTP is an important aspect of Ubuntu VPS, as it contributes to smooth information processing. Hence, if you do not have FTP installed on your server yet, these steps will guide you through the setups.
1. Install vsftpd
As explained in the GUI desktop, the first step is to install the apt-get update. Once you are done running the vsftpd package, you will receive a confirmation text. Then, use the command line to enter and complete the configuration. To complete the installation process, create a new configuration file, and make sure to back up the original files.
2. Secure firewall
You need to secure a firewall to allow your FTP to interact with other users connected to the internet. However, secure your firewall by enabling it via admin authoritative operation.
Input the keywords;
sudo apt-get install ufw sudo ufw enable
Moreover, after activating your firewall, make sure it is allowed on your server. If your server doesn’t allow a firewall, you should open the command line, which will direct you to other ports. You will have to access OpenSSH, ports 20, and ports 21.
3. Create FTP User
To create a new FTP user, your server will require a new password. However, you can carry out this operation by using the command line;
sudo user ad -m tes user sudo password ser
4. Configure vsftpd
The next step is to configure your FTP access and vsftpd. To start with, you can use the nano command to configure your vsftpd file. You can access your file by inputting;
Sudo nano /etc/oecc.vn
5. Secure FTP
Lastly, secure your FTP by using an SSL certificate. TTS/SSL certificate encrypts your data. Firstly, we will create an Utunbu SSL certificate with the code;
sudo OpenSSL req -x509 -nodes -days 365 -new key rsa:2048 -keyout /etc/SSL/private/oecc.vn -out /etc/SSL/private/oecc.vn
6. Lastly
input the required personal details. When the installation process is complete, we will restrict your server accessibility to only users with the SSL certificate. Then cross-check with FileZilla, and launch the FTP server.
Good luck!
Conclusion
Setting up an Ubuntu server and FTP server on your VPS involves technical-know-how. Hence, we recommend you purchase the managed Ubuntu server plan, which allows your service provider to run the system effortlessly. However, the Ubuntu server gives visitors a good experience, but you need to run its software accurately to enjoy it at the maximum.
You can own a VPS with Ubuntu. Ubuntu is a popular OS that operates based on Linux and Debian. Many users often use Ubuntu on smartphones, personal computers, and network VPS servers. The installed interface that runs a server is at default Unity, which is a common interface among users. However, you can reach out to our technical team to start, install and own a virtual private server.
