|—————————————-|
| Parameter | Description |
|———————–|——————————————————————–|
| Current Version | Ubuntu 18.04 LTS |
| Upgrade to | Ubuntu 20.04 LTS |
| Release Date | April 23, 2020 |
| Kernel Version | 5.4 LTS |
| Python Version | 3.8.2 |
| GCC Version | 9.3 |
| Default Desktop | GNOME 3.36 |
| LTS Support Until | April 2025 |
| New Features | Improved performance, updated applications, and latest updates. |
| Upgrade Procedure | Update current system, pre-requisites check, perform Upgrade. |
Ubuntu 20.04 is the latest Long Term Support release from Canonical, released on April 23, 2020 with a host of new features and improvements. This update includes a new kernel version 5.4 LTS and introduces the default desktop GNOME 3.36. It also comes with the latest version of Python, v3.8.2, and GCC v9.3. The upgrade process is straightforward, requiring an update to the current system, checking for prerequisites, and then performing the actual upgrade. This version will receive software support until April 2025. The major highlight of Ubuntu 20.04 is its improved performance, thus making your Linux experience smoother and more reliable. Also, it keeps you up-to-date by offering the latest versions of various important software applications and tools.
Ubuntu 20.04, codenamed Focal Fossa, is the latest Long Term Support (LTS) release from the popular Linux-based operating system. Upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04 offers several substantial benefits.
Advantages of upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04:
1. Stability and Long Term Support – Being an LTS release, Ubuntu 20.04 will receive ongoing updates and security fixes until April 2025, making it a stable choice for both personal use and enterprise environments.
2. Enhanced Performance – Ubuntu 20.04 incorporates many performance improvements over previous versions. These include faster boot times and better resource management, significantly enhancing overall system efficiency.
3. Updated Software Packages – With this upgrade, users get access to the latest versions of default applications like Firefox, LibreOffice, and more. The software base has been updated from Debian 10 “Buster”.
4. Improved User Interface and Experience – Ubuntu 20.04 comes with GNOME 3.36 that provides new features such as a refreshed look and feel, dark mode, and improvements in system settings and notifications.
5. New Features – ZFS file system support is now more comprehensive, providing enhanced data protection and storage solutions. Also, WireGuard VPN is included by default for robust virtual private network setups.
6. Better Security – Ubuntu 20.04 brings multiple security enhancements including kernel lockdown in integrity mode and improved handling of sudo privileges, ensuring your system is safer from various threats.
For seamless mitigation from older versions to newer ones, make sure to back up all important data before upgrading. Canonical, the parent company behind Ubuntu, has made their upgrade process quite straightforward. Users can use the built-in software updater tool or perform command-line upgrades using the terminal with the ‘do-release-upgrade’ command.Before upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04, there are several prerequisite tasks you should perform:
1. Backup Data: This is one of the most vital tasks before any upgrade process. Users are recommended to back up their important data to an external drive or cloud storage.
2. Check for Updates: Ensure your current system is updated. You can use command “sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade” for this purpose. It updates all the packages to the latest version.
3. Remove Unnecessary Software: Eliminate any unused or unnecessary software from the system using the ‘Purge’ command.
4. Know your System: Familiarize yourself with your present Ubuntu version and its functionalities. Make sure everything’s working as it should.
5. Check Release Upgrade Availability: Use “do-release-upgrade -c” to check if the release is available.
6. Install screen: A “screen” allows you to keep sessions alive which means you can resume your upgrade even after network disconnection. Install it by using command “sudo apt install screen”.
7. Prepare your System: Finally, run a system cleanup function to remove redundant files. The command “sudo apt autoremove && sudo apt autoclean” can be used here.
Once these tasks are completed, you can proceed with the upgrade to Ubuntu 20.04 confidently.1. Backup Your System: Before performing an upgrade, it is essential to back up your data. Any issues during the upgrade process could lead to data loss.
2. Check Hardware Compatibility: Ensure that your hardware meets the system requirements for Ubuntu 20.04.
3. Software Compatibility: Update and upgrade your existing software packages. Also, review any third-party software dependencies. They may not all be compatible with Ubuntu 20.04.
4. Upgrade Path: Direct upgrades from one release to another are only supported if you are upgrading from the last release (Ubuntu 19.10).
5. Remove Unnecessary Packages: Clean your system of unnecessary packages to avoid conflicts during the upgrade.
6. Use Screen: In case your SSH session disconnects during the upgrade process, Using ‘screen’ can be useful.
7. Read Release Notes: Knowledge about new features, updated applications, and potential bugs is included in the Ubuntu 20.04 release notes.
8. Test Run: If possible, do a trial run of the upgrade on a non-production or test system first.
9. Internet Connection: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection before starting the upgrade process as it requires downloading new packages.
10. Restart System: After successfully upgrading Ubuntu, restart your system to enable the changes.
11. Time Management: Allow sufficient time for the upgrade process. Rushing through it could cause mistakes. So plan accordingly.
12. Know How to Revert: Even with all precautions, there could still be unexpected problems. Knowing how to revert back to the previous version is very beneficial.Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, also known as Focal Fossa, introduced several key features that make upgrading from earlier versions a compelling choice.
1. Five-year support: Being an LTS (Long-Term Support) version, Ubuntu 20.04 comes with five years of support, ensuring security and maintenance updates till April 2025.
2. Enhanced performance: Ubuntu 20.04 has improved system performance with faster boot speed. Upgrading can therefore lead to a smoother and efficient running system.
3. Updated Applications: Ubuntu 20.04 brings several updated applications including Firefox, LibreOffice, and Thunderbird. Moreover, it includes the latest GNOME 3.36 desktop environment which offers significant user interface improvements.
4. New Lock Screen: With the upgrade, users get a new lock screen design giving your computer a modern appearance.
5. Linux Kernel 5.4: Ubuntu 20.04 is loaded with Kernel 5.4 which delivers better hardware support, significant power-saving improvements, and increased overall system stability.
6. Enhanced Security: Ubuntu 20.04 has WireGuard VPN backed in by default and also supports Secure Boot to protect against low level attacks and rootkits.
7. Smoother System Snap Integration: The integration of snaps has been smoothed out in this version, making for easier installation and management of software.
The upgrade process also brings about removal of previously deprecated software in the system. Before you upgrade, ensure that all your essential applications have compatible versions in Ubuntu 20.04. Also, backup all important data to avoid accidental losses during the upgrade.Upgrading Ubuntu to the latest version, specifically Ubuntu 20.04 from an older version, can provide you with improved performance, bug fixes, and new features. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to upgrade:
Before starting, it is crucial to back up all important data. The upgrading process usually goes smoothly, but there’s always a risk of data loss if something unexpected occurs.
1. **Update Existing Package**: First, update all your current packages by using the commands `sudo apt update` and then `sudo apt upgrade`.
2. **Remove Unnecessary Packages**: After updating, remove any unnecessary packages to avoid conflicts while upgrading. Use the command `sudo apt autoremove`.
3. **Install Update Manager Core**: If it isn’t already installed, use the command `sudo apt install update-manager-core`.
4. **Ensure Prompt for LTS Release**: Go into the release-upgrades file found under /etc/update-manager/release-upgrades and ensure that the “Prompt” line is set to “lts”. This will make sure that the system only prompts to upgrade to other LTS versions.
5. **Begin Upgrade Process**: Start upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04 by running `sudo do-release-upgrade`.
6. **Follow On-Screen Instructions**: After executing the command, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade process.
In total, this process could take up to several hours depending on your internet speed and computer’s power, so plan accordingly. Also, reboot your system after upgrading to let the changes take effect. After rebooting, check your distribution with the command `lsb_release -a` to confirm that you’re now using Ubuntu 20.04.After upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04, there are several configurations you may want to go through to optimize your system:
1. Update System: Although you just upgraded, the first thing you should do is run a full system update to ensure all packages are current.
2. Install Media Codecs: If not done during the installation process, you would want to install media codecs to enable media playback on your system.
3. Enable Livepatch: To keep your system at the forefront of security, enabling Canonical Livepatch is recommended. This helps in applying critical kernel patches without rebooting the system.
4. Configure Display Settings: Depending on your display and preference, you might want to adjust the appearance setting of your Ubuntu desktop. This includes configuring night light, size of dock, position of dock, etc.
5. Privacy Settings: You can limit the data that’s collected from your system, disable location services, manage who has access to your camera, files, or what applications have access to your microphone.
6. Install Applications: With Ubuntu Software store or with commands, you can install needful applications like Chrome, VLC, LibreOffice, etc.
7. Configure Power Saving: A very useful function if you’re using Ubuntu on Laptop. You can set automatic suspend, and power off settings according to your preferences.
8. Firewall Activation: Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW) is integrated into Ubuntu. It’s inactive by default so you should activate it for enhanced security.
9. Clean Up After Upgrade: Lastly, always a good practice to clean up unnecessary installation files left after the upgrade.
Remember, some of these recommendations may depend upon whether you performed a fresh installation of Ubuntu 20.04 or upgraded from Ubuntu 19.10 to 20.04. You should test your system thoroughly after the upgrade to make sure everything is working as expected.Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, or “Focal Fossa,” brings various upgrades and enhancements to the software pre-installed on the latest version. First and foremost, it is equipped with Gnome 3.36, which offers new features such as an improved system menu, a do not disturb button, and more.
Moreover, you will observe changes in other pre-installed packages. Ubuntu 20.04 LTS introduces WireGuard, the open-source VPN solution, pre-installed within the Linux kernel itself. It comes with Python 3.8 out of the box, indicating that Python 2 has been dropped due to end-of-life status.
Similarly, it has pre-loaded PHP 7.4, GCC 9, Ruby 2.7, Perl 5.30 for respective users. Moreover, there are updates in applications as well, like Thunderbird has been updated to version 68.7.0. Focal Fossa also includes Snap Store by default replacing Ubuntu Software Center.
When upgrading from Ubuntu 18.04 or 19.10 to 20.04, these innovations and enhancements will be added to your existing system, assuming compatibility and system requirements are met. As usual, before an upgrade, it is crucial to back up all important data to prevent any potential loss.
After upgrading your system to Ubuntu 20.04, you may encounter several potential problems that you need to solve for a smooth transition.
1. **Problem with the Grub Menu**: If you have multiple operating systems installed, there could be an issue when trying to boot into your system. You can resolve this by reinstalling the grub menu via the terminal `$sudo update-grub`.
2. **Unmet Dependencies**: After an upgrade, unmet dependencies can pose challenges. This problem can arise if a package depends on another that it’s not installed yet or if a set of packages are in conflict. You can solve this problem by running these commands: `$ sudo apt-get install -f` and ` $ sudo dpkg –configure -a`.
3. **Desktop Display Issues**: An upgrade could lead to graphical issues on your desktop, causing icons, toolbars, and other elements to disappear. If this happens, try reseting the desktop environment using `$ dconf reset -f /`.
4. **Problem with Software Packages**: Some software packages available in the previous Ubuntu versions may not work correctly in Ubuntu 20.04 because of phased out support or compatibility problems. Resolving such issues might require reinstalling the software or seeking alternative applications.
5. **Issue with startup applications**: Some of your startup applications may get deactivated automatically after the upgrade. To rectify, click “Startup Applications” from your application launcher, which will list all your current startup applications. Make sure to check if your desired applications are toggled on.
6. **Slow or Failing Network Connection**: Sometimes, a system upgrade may tamper with your network settings leading to a slow or complete loss of Internet connection. In such a case, try resetting your network settings by navigating to Settings > Network and click on the gear icon next to your connection then the Reset button.
Always remember to back up all important data before initiating any system upgrades to prevent data loss. Most importantly, ensure you have ample experience and understanding of the Linux console before undergoing any major system modification attempts like an OS upgrade to avoid disastrous mistakes.If you’re looking to upgrade from an earlier Ubuntu installation to Ubuntu 20.04, also known as Focal Fossa, you’ll likely want to know the key differences and improvements made in this edition. Below are some notable changes:
1. Linux Kernel Upgrade: Ubuntu 20.04 comes with the updated version of the Linux kernel, v5.4, which provides better hardware support.
2. Improved Gnome Desktop: The version of GNOME has been updated to 3.36 with Ubuntu 20.04. It brings many UI and UX refinements, such as a new lock screen, updated system menu, and improved performance.
3. Software Packages: The software packages in Ubuntu 20.04 have seen significant upgrades. Many of them come in their newer versions like Python 3.8.2, Ruby 2.7, PHP 7.4 etc.
4. OOTB ZFS Install Support: This is one of the notable features in Ubuntu 20.04. ZFS has been available since 19.10 but it’s more stable and fully-supported in 20.04.
5. New Theme and Icons: Canonical, the parent company of Ubuntu, has given Ubuntu 20.04 a visual refresh with a light/dark theme switcher and rejuvenated icons.
6. Snaps By Default: From 20.04, certain applications will be installed from the Snap store by default rather than the traditional apt method.
7. Hardware/Architecture Support: Ubuntu 20.04 has ended the support for 32-bit systems and focuses on improving support for modern 64-bit computers.
8. Network Configuration: Netplan, a network configuration abstraction renderer, is introduced in Ubuntu 20.04, allowing for more complex network configurations.
Please make sure to back up your important data before upgrading to this version just in case any issues arise during the process.Upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04 not only provides you with the latest features and security updates, but it also gives you extended support which can be of great benefit. The Extended Security Maintenance (ESM) is offered by Canonical, the developer of Ubuntu.
With Ubuntu 20.04, you get five years of standard support, followed by another five years of ESM, meaning you can potentially secure your system until 2030. This longevity can greatly reduce pressure on IT departments as they won’t have to frequently upgrade their operating systems due to end of life scenarios.
Furthermore, upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04 during its ESM phase ensures that your system remains secure against various potential threats. You would continue receiving crucial security patches for the kernel and other essential packages.
In a business context, this extended support significantly lowers the cost and risk of running applications in production. By opting for Ubuntu 20.04 and utilizing its ESM, you can ensure a stable and safe environment even after the regular support period ends.After upgrading your Ubuntu system to 20.04, you can follow the steps below to customise your desktop experience:
1. **Tweak tool:** First, install the GNOME Tweak Tool which helps immensely with customisation. Do this by typing `sudo apt-get install gnome-tweaks` in the terminal.
2. **Change Themes:** To change the theme of your Ubuntu system, open the Tweak Tool and navigate to the appearance section. Here, you will be able to choose between different settings for applications, cursors, and icons.
3. **Customize Dock:** In Ubuntu 20.04, you can customize the dock (the vertical bar with application shortcuts) by going to the system settings and selecting the Dock option there. You’re able to adjust its size, position and visibility.
4. **Change Desktop Background:** This can be changed by right-clicking on the desktop and picking ‘change background’ then choosing from a selection of images or add your own.
5. **Install Extensions:** To further customise your user interface, you can install GNOME extensions. These can completely modify your user experience. Install them via `sudo apt install chrome-gnome-shell` on terminal and use it with Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome’s extensions “GNOME Shell integration”.
6. **Configure Topbar:** To customize what goes in your top bar (date, battery status, etc), go to the Top Bar tab of the Tweak Tool.
7. **Modify Startup Applications:** From the Tweaks Tool, select ‘Startup Applications’. Here, you can add or remove apps that start when the system boots up.
Remember using terminal commands need sudo (superuser) privileges for installing packages. Always take care while downloading new ones to avoid security issues.In conclusion, upgrading your system to Ubuntu 20.04 offers advanced features and enhanced performance to provide users with a more efficient, reliable computing experience. Boosted security measures ensure that your device is highly defended against digital threats, while simplified system processes enable you to save valuable time and effort. The Ubuntu 20.04 Upgrade encapsulates the innovation, simplicity, and superior design that Linux users have come to expect from each new Ubuntu version. It’s truly an upgrade worth considering for those wanting to stay at the forefront of operating system technology. Start benefiting today by making the switch to the Ubuntu 20.04 Upgrade.
