How do I upgrade Ubuntu?

Upgrading your Ubuntu server can be essential for several reasons, such as accessing newer software versions, improved security features and enhanced performance. An updated operating system ensures you benefit from the latest improvements and stay compatible with current software requirements.

However, upgrading your Ubuntu version requires a basic understanding of SSH and command-line operations. If you're not comfortable with these concepts, it's safer to provision a fresh server with the desired Ubuntu version and migrate your applications. This reduces the risk of system conflicts and data loss.

Pre-upgrade preparation

1. Back up your data: securely back up all critical data, including website files, databases and configuration settings.

2. Update your current system:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt dist-upgrade

3. Install update-manager-core:

sudo apt install update-manager-core

Upgrade process

4. Configure release upgrades: edit /etc/update-manager/release-upgrades and set Prompt to lts or normal:

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

5. Start the upgrade:

sudo do-release-upgrade

Follow the on-screen prompts carefully.

6. Monitor the upgrade: respond to any prompts regarding package changes or confirmations.

• Respond to prompts carefully: during the upgrade you'll encounter prompts about package changes or configuration file updates.
• Preserve custom configurations: if prompted about modified configuration files, it's usually best to keep your current version, so your custom settings aren't overwritten. Choosing the package maintainer's version could reset configurations to defaults and affect your applications or server setup.
• Note changes: if you're unsure about a particular file, note its path and review it after the upgrade.

Post-upgrade steps

7. Reboot and verify:

sudo reboot
lsb_release -a

8. Restore configurations: reapply any settings from your backup if necessary.

9. Check your Ploi settings: make sure your Ploi panel settings still match the new server configuration.

10. Test your applications: ensure everything works as expected on the new OS version.

Important considerations

• Downtime: the upgrade involves some downtime for your services.
• Compatibility checks: verify your applications are compatible with the new OS version before proceeding.
• Professional assistance: if you're unsure about the process, seek help from a qualified system administrator.

If you're not comfortable with SSH and server management, provisioning a new server with the desired Ubuntu version and migrating your applications is often the safer and more efficient option.