How To Update Ubuntu18.04 Server To Ubuntu 20.4

Upgrading your Ubuntu operating system from version 18.04 to 20.04 is a significant task that can enhance your system with new features and improvements. However, to ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential pitfalls, it’s crucial to follow a careful procedure. In this guide, we’ll provide detailed steps to help you upgrade your Ubuntu system successfully.

1. Backup Your Data: Before embarking on any major system upgrade, it is essential to back up your important data. This precautionary step ensures that your files and configurations are safe in case anything goes wrong during the upgrade process. You can back up your data using external storage or cloud-based services like Google Drive or Dropbox.

2. Update Your Current System: To prepare your system for the upgrade, make sure it’s up to date. Open a terminal and execute the following commands one by one:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt dist-upgrade
sudo apt autoremove

These commands will update your existing packages, ensuring that your system is in good shape for the upgrade.

3. Install the update-manager-core Package: If you don’t already have the update-manager-core package installed, you’ll need to add it to perform the release upgrade. Use the following command to install it:

sudo apt install update-manager-core

This package is essential for managing the upgrade process.

4. Edit the release-upgrades File: You must configure the upgrade manager to target Long Term Support (LTS) releases. To do this, open the release-upgrades file in a text editor:

sudo nano /etc/update-manager/release-upgrades

Make sure that the Prompt parameter is set to “lts” as follows:

Prompt=lts

Save and exit the file.

5. Start the Upgrade: Now, you’re ready to initiate the upgrade process. Run the following command:

sudo do-release-upgrade

Follow the on-screen prompts and instructions carefully. You may be asked to confirm package changes, and you might need to press ‘Y’ or ‘Enter’ when prompted. This command will fetch the necessary files and perform the upgrade.

6. Reboot Your System: After the upgrade is complete, it’s essential to reboot your system. This step ensures that you start using the newly installed Ubuntu 20.04 version with all the enhancements and features.

7. Verify the New Release: To confirm that your system has successfully upgraded to Ubuntu 20.04, execute the following command:

lsb_release -a

This command will display detailed information about your system, including the release number.

Conclusion:

Upgrading from Ubuntu 18.04 to 20.04 can be a smooth process if you follow the steps outlined in this guide. Remember to back up your data, update your system, configure the upgrade manager to target LTS releases, and carefully follow the prompts during the upgrade. While the process is generally straightforward, it’s important to be prepared for any potential issues that may arise during the transition.