Are you a layman and do not have any knowledge of Ubuntu? If yes, you might be worried about the recent updates. The common question that arises from many Ubuntu users is how to update Ubuntu. Our simple answer to everyone is not to worry; you can easily update Ubuntu, which takes just a couple of steps.
What is Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is an open-source Linux distribution. This operating system was intended to be used by Personal Computer users. But, later on, it was clear that it may be used on servers. This Linux-based Operating System is used for different mobile phones, computers, laptops, and servers.
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How to update Ubuntu, and why is it important?
The process about how to update Ubuntu is there under this tutorial article. We have come up with a step by step process that will help you to update Ubuntu pretty quickly. The Ubuntu Operating system is updated every six months, and keeping up with the regular updates may seem too challenging and overwhelming for some people. But, there are specific reasons that show that it is essential to update Ubuntu’s latest version.
Many users don’t get much difference between one update and another, and that’s the main reason they keep using the older version. Some people don’t even realize that the new version has arrived. However, it is essential to get regular updates if you want to stay protected from all types of bugs and malware attacks.
The best part about the Ubuntu update is that you don’t have to spend a single penny to get the update. All you need to do is run your update manager and know about the recently available update.
The reason why updates are important
One of the biggest reasons why the Ubuntu update is essential is that it helps your system be safe and secure. Most updates are available with security updates of 18 months. It is necessary to know that your version of Ubuntu is getting security updates. If you are not getting the security alerts and updates, your system and your digital devices may be prone to different types of risks. Thus, upgrade to a newer version of Ubuntu to let your digital devices run smoothly.
How to Update Ubuntu: The beginner’s guide
You may not trust us, but updating Ubuntu is as easy as preparing an omelet for yourself. Updating is as simple as clicking a mouse and using two commands. In this article, we are providing two ways that can help you to update Ubuntu.
The two primary process about how to update Ubuntu includes:
- Updating Ubuntu via command line
- Updating Ubuntu with the help of the GUI tool
The process of updating Ubuntu that we provide in this article is valid for version 18.04 and 16.04.
The command-based method of updating Ubuntu is only possible for a few versions of it. For example, Ubuntu-based Linux distribution, Linux Lite, Linux Mint, and Elementary Operating System are some.
Let’s look at the two different processes of how to update Ubuntu packages in details:
Method one: How to Update Ubuntu with the help of the Command line
The process of upgrading Ubuntu 16.04 to the 18.04 command line is pretty simple.
You need to start the process by opening the terminal on your desktop.
You can check that on the menu, or else you can press Ctrl+Alt+T.
Once you already signed up into the Ubuntu server, you don’t have to worry as you have gained authority at the terminal.
When you have got access to the terminal, there is one command that you have to use:
Sudo apt update &&Sudo apt upgrade-Y
The system prompts you to specify the password. Provide your Ubuntu account password. When you are entering the password, the system won’t show you the password. Once you provide the password, you have to press the enter key.
After the process is complete successfully, you can see the latest version of the Ubuntu package.
What is this command?
The command that is effective to update Ubuntu is not just the one that the user must use. The command looks like one but is a blend of two different commands. You can combine two commands with the help of the “&” symbol. You have to note that you can execute the second command only when the first one is complete successfully.
The “y” symbol that you see in the command window. You have to press y to start the update process. This permission is promoted by the command, called “apt upgrade.”
You should know that one can make use of both these commands either together or individually. Using the two commands distinctly will take more time. Moreover, you cannot execute another command when the first command’s action is not yet complete.
What does the Sudo apt update command do?
The primary purpose of the Sudo apt update is to keep all the database packages up-to-date. If you do not run any of these two commands in combination or isolation, you can’t update the local database. In case the local database does not get updated, the system can’t learn whether or not there is any new version of the updates and packages available.
When running the command, called Sudo apt update, many URLs are on display as output. The main aim of this command is to get the required package details from different depositories.
In the final steps, you get directed to an option that informs you about the total number of database packages that got updated.
Purpose of “Sudo apt upgrade” command
This command’s primary goal is to match the newly installed version of the package to that of the local database’s ones. When you use this command, a dialog box is displayed promoted whether you would like to upgrade the installed package to the latest version or not.
You can specify yes or y or press the enter key to authorize you to install the new updates.
Therefore, it is clear that the apt update looks for the newly available packages, and on the other hand, the Sudo apt upgrade will install the latest version of Ubuntu.
Method 2: How to update Ubuntu through the GUI
If you don’t know how to update Ubuntu via a different method other than command, read this paragraph carefully. The Ubuntu update through GUI is especially beneficial for people who use desktop devices. If you would like to use Ubuntu as your desktop, you don’t have to update the ubuntu terminal. Let’s look at the steps to update Ubuntu via the GUI:
Go to the menu and click “Software updater” to run.
Running the “Software updater” will show you that updates are available.
If the updates will be available, an option is displayed, and clicking on that will enable you to install the latest update
When you click on the “Install now” button, you will have to give a password.
Once you fill in the password, the installation of the update will begin.
Sometimes, you must reboot the Ubuntu system so that the installation can work properly.
Once the installation is complete, you will receive a pop-up that prompts you to reboot the system.
Restart the system, and congratulations, you have updated Ubuntu via the GUI.
If this update process shows you an error, you need to use the command Sudo apt to update the terminal. If nothing works, you need to check the internet to get details about the error and fix it accordingly.
Factors to consider while updating Ubuntu
If you are a beginner user and don’t know how to update Ubuntu, you don’t need to worry. Follow the process as mentioned above to quickly keep the Ubuntu up-to-date with ease. But, no matter which method of Ubuntu update you are using, you need to pay attention to a few points.
Clean after completing the update process
One of the essential points that you can’t forget after completing an update is to do the cleanup. After the update is complete, the system will have specific unused packages that do not need it. Thus, cleanup is essential in this case. If you want to remove these unnecessary packages from your system, you can use the “Sudo apt auto-remove” box.
Apply patches in live on the Ubuntu server to get rid of a system reboot
Once the Linux Kernel update is final, you have to reboot the system. However, this leads to higher server downtime. No one wants to keep their server down.
The best solution available to keep the server up and do the updates is through live patching. It enables you to apply the patches to the Linux kernel while it is still up. The best thing is that you do not have to restart the system.
If you are responsible for keeping the servers up always, you can embrace live patching for Ubuntu.
Version and package updates are poles apart.
Most people don’t understand the difference between the package upgrade and the version upgrade, and this confusion can lead to a mistake, and you may have to search for different platforms to get the actual answer. The Ubuntu version update means that you are updating the full version of the Operating system and the package update means only a few elements are getting an update. When you are going for the version update, you have to keep a backup before starting the lengthy update process.
The new Ubuntu Update and points you need to keep in mind
If you don’t know how to update Ubuntu, there will be difficulty understanding the new Ubuntu 20.04 upgrade. Therefore, you need to follow the points mentioned above. Moreover, the methods to start updating Ubuntu from the older version is also essential.
To get the new update, all you need is a good internet connection and almost 1.5GB data to complete the update. The up-gradation process requires a few clicks and a few minutes to complete.
What happens when the update is complete?
All your system data and all of your system’s application settings remain the same. Even though everything remains the same after the update is complete, you need to keep a backup on an external disk to ensure that none of your data gets deleted.
You are sure about updating Ubuntu to a new version; you must be sure that you won’t downgrade it. This means that if you have updated from version 16.04 to 18.04, you won’t be able to get back to the previous version no matter how much you try. Thus, you have to plan wisely before starting the update process.
It is always advisable to have a backup of your data on any other device or disk. Thus, if you are thinking about updating Ubuntu to a new version, make sure to have a backup of your data and everything stored in your device.
You will need at least 2GB to 3GB of free space on your root partition. If you don’t have this much space available, you may have to free up some distance before the update begins.
You need a high-speed internet connection to complete the update successfully.
You need to spend at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending upon your device and internet connection, to complete the update process.
Conclusion
If you have found a recent update for Ubuntu and you don’t know how to proceed with the updating process, this article may help you. So, go through every part of this tutorial if you want to know everything about Ubuntu updating. We hope you will like and follow this method of updating Ubuntu, and you will use this process the next time you are stuck with the updating process.
So, instead of asking for a different online process, stick to the process we have provided to install and update Ubuntu’s new version. If you want your device to work to its optimum level, you must check for regular updates.
Let us know if you want to know more details about the Ubuntu update process or anything else related to Ubuntu. Share the article with your friends if they are facing any problem in updating Ubuntu.
