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If you're looking for a user-friendly way to monitor and manage your Linux server, Cockpit is one of the best tools available. In this forum post, we’ll guide you through how to install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04, using instructions based on the official guide from Vultr

Whether you’re managing a single server or an entire fleet, Cockpit makes system administration easier with a clean and intuitive web-based dashboard.

What is Cockpit?

Cockpit is a lightweight, open-source web interface that allows you to administer your Linux system using a browser. It provides real-time insights into:

• CPU and memory usage

• Storage and disk performance

• Network activity

• Active services

• System logs

• Docker containers (if installed)

• Software updates and more

Best of all, you don’t need to abandon your terminal workflow — Cockpit runs alongside traditional command-line tools and doesn’t interfere with existing settings.

Why Use Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04?

Ubuntu 24.04 is the latest LTS release, offering stability and security for long-term deployments. Installing Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04 allows sysadmins to:

• Monitor server health and performance visually

• Start/stop services with a click

• Manage systemd units and logs

• Add storage, users, and network settings

• Use an integrated terminal

• Manage multiple servers from one interface

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure the following:

• You are using Ubuntu 24.04

• You have sudo privileges

• The system is connected to the internet

• A web browser is available on your local machine

How to Install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04

Let’s go through the process of installing Cockpit, as explained in Vultr’s official guide.

Step 1: Update Your System

First, make sure your system packages are up to date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This step ensures compatibility with the latest versions of Cockpit and its dependencies.

Step 2: Install Cockpit

Cockpit is available in Ubuntu’s default repositories, so installation is straightforward:

sudo apt install cockpit -y

This will install Cockpit and its required packages.

Step 3: Enable and Start the Cockpit Service

After installation, enable and start the Cockpit service so that it starts at boot:

sudo systemctl enable --now cockpit.socket

To confirm that it’s running, check the status:

sudo systemctl status cockpit.socket

You should see output indicating the service is active and listening.

Step 4: Access Cockpit via Web Browser

Open your browser and go to:

• Use your system's username and password to log in.

• If you get a warning about an insecure connection, proceed by accepting the self-signed SSL certificate.

• Once inside, you’ll have access to Cockpit’s full dashboard.

Optional: Open the Firewall Port

If UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) is enabled, allow Cockpit traffic:

sudo ufw allow 9090/tcp

Then reload the firewall:

sudo ufw reload

Final Thoughts

Installing Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04 is a quick and efficient way to add a visual management layer to your Linux server. It’s particularly helpful for beginners who are new to terminal-based system administration, but it’s also powerful enough for seasoned pros managing complex environments.

You can expand Cockpit with additional modules (like support for containers or virtual machines) and even manage multiple servers from one dashboard.

For a detailed walkthrough, you can always refer to the full guide from VultrHave you installed Cockpit on your Ubuntu 24.04 server? Share your experience, customizations, or tips below to help others get the most from this powerful tool!