How to Install the Latest Ubuntu Server on Google Cloud Compute

Summary

  1. Introduction
  2. Creating a Google Cloud Account
  3. Setting Up a Project
  4. Creating a Virtual Machine Instance
  5. Connecting to Your VM Instance
  6. Updating and Upgrading Ubuntu Server
  7. Installing Essential Packages
  8. Setting Up a Firewall
  9. Managing Your Server with LinuxPatch.com
  10. Case Studies: Patching with LinuxPatch.com
  11. Conclusion

Introduction

Ubuntu Server on Google Cloud Compute offers a powerful combination of Linux reliability and cloud scalability. This guide will walk you through the installation process, from setting up your Google Cloud account to securing your server.

Creating a Google Cloud Account

  1. Visit the Google Cloud Platform
  2. Click "Get started for free"
  3. Follow the prompts to create your account
  4. Provide billing information (Google offers a free tier and credits for new users)

Setting Up a Project

  1. In the Google Cloud Console, click the project dropdown at the top
  2. Select "New Project"
  3. Name your project and click "Create"
  4. Ensure your new project is selected in the dropdown

Creating a Virtual Machine Instance

  1. Navigate to Compute Engine in the Google Cloud Console
  2. Click "Create Instance"
  3. Configure your instance:
    • Name: Choose a unique name
    • Region and Zone: Select based on your needs
    • Machine Configuration: Start with n1-standard-1 for general use
    • Boot Disk: Select the latest Ubuntu LTS version
  4. Click "Create" to launch your VM

Connecting to Your VM Instance

Option 1: Browser-based SSH
  1. Go to VM instances page in Google Cloud Console
  2. Click the "SSH" button next to your instance
Option 2: SSH Client
  1. Download the private key for your instance
  2. Use the following command: 
    ssh -i /path/to/your/private-key username@instance-external-ip

Updating and Upgrading Ubuntu Server

Run the following command to update and upgrade your server:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

This ensures you have the latest security patches and software updates.

Installing Essential Packages

  • Git (Version Control)
    sudo apt install git -y
  • Nginx (Web Server)
    sudo apt install nginx -y
  • MySQL (Database Server)
    sudo apt install mysql-server -y
  • PHP (Server-side Scripting)
    sudo apt install php-fpm php-mysql -y

Setting Up a Firewall

Use UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) to manage your firewall settings:

sudo ufw allow OpenSSH
sudo ufw allow 'Nginx Full'
sudo ufw enable

This configuration allows SSH and HTTP/HTTPS traffic.

Managing Your Server with LinuxPatch.com

Benefits of LinuxPatch.com
  • Automated Patching
  • Compliance Reports
  • Vulnerability Management
Get Started with LinuxPatch.com

Case Studies: Patching with LinuxPatch.com

E-commerce Platform

Prevented security breaches with automated patching.

Financial Institution

Ensured compliance with detailed patching reports.

Healthcare Provider

Protected sensitive data with prompt security updates.

Conclusion

Installing Ubuntu Server on Google Cloud Compute combines the power of cloud computing with Ubuntu's reliability. Ensure your server stays secure and compliant by using LinuxPatch.com for automated patching and management.

Secure Your Server with LinuxPatch.com