This guide explains how to install Ubuntu Linux on a Virtual Private Server (VPS). Most VPS providers offer Ubuntu as a one-click OS installation, but we also cover manual installation and post-install setup to ensure your server is secure and ready for use.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

• An active VPS from your hosting provider

• VPS login credentials (email, password, or API access)

• Root password or SSH key

• A stable internet connection

• An SSH client:

  • Linux / macOS: Terminal

  • Windows: PowerShell or PuTTY

Method 1: Install Ubuntu Using VPS Control Panel (Recommended)

Most VPS providers (cPanel/WHM, Virtualizor, SolusVM, Proxmox, Cloud panels) support automatic OS installation.

Steps

1. Log in to your VPS control panel

2. Go to OS Reinstall / Operating System

3. Select Ubuntu (recommended versions):

   • Ubuntu 22.04 LTS

   • Ubuntu 20.04 LTS

4. Set or generate a root password

5. Click Reinstall / Deploy

6. Wait 5–15 minutes for installation to complete

Once done, your VPS will reboot automatically.

Method 2: Install Ubuntu via ISO (Advanced Users)

Use this method if your provider allows custom ISO mounting.

Steps

1. Open the VPS console (VNC / NoVNC)

2. Mount the Ubuntu Server ISO

3. Reboot the VPS

4. Follow the Ubuntu installer:

   • Choose language and keyboard

   • Configure network (DHCP recommended)

   • Set hostname

   • Create root or sudo user

   • Select disk (use entire disk unless custom setup)

5. Complete installation and reboot

6. Remove ISO after installation

Connecting to Your Ubuntu VPS

After installation, connect using SSH.

Linux / macOS

Windows (PowerShell)

Enter your root password when prompted.

Post-Installation Setup (Highly Recommended)

1. Update the System

2. Create a New User (Security Best Practice)

Switch to the new user:

3. Secure SSH Access

Edit SSH configuration:

Recommended changes:

Restart SSH:

4. Enable Firewall (UFW)

Common Ubuntu Versions for VPS

Troubleshooting

SSH Connection Refused

• Ensure SSH is running:

• Check firewall rules:

VPS Not Booting

• Reinstall OS from control panel

• Verify disk selection

• Contact VPS provider support

Conclusion

Installing Ubuntu on a VPS is straightforward using your hosting control panel. After installation, always secure your server with updates, firewall rules, and non-root users. Ubuntu LTS versions are recommended for production servers due to long-term support and stability.