Ubuntu 20.04 LTS has released on April 23, 2020 (with code name “Focal Fossa”) by succeeding its Ubuntu 19.10 as a Latest Stable Linux OS. As Ubuntu 20.04 LTS has suffix “LTS” that’s means it has Long Term Support for 5 years from Ubuntu.
Ubuntu 20.04 LTS has come with many features some key features it comprises as below:
- Linux Kernel 5.4
- Faster boot speeds
- OEM logo displayed during boot
- Improved appearance
- Dark theme
- Fractional scaling setting
- Ships with GNOME 3.36
- Redesigned login screen
- New lock screen
- Snap-based Ubuntu Software app
- Improved GNOME Shell performance
- Refined ZFS install support
- Game mode added to the archives
So finally, I got an opportunity to get my hand dirty on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS Linux. I upgraded my test Ubuntu 18.04 LTS KVM based VM (Virtual Machine) to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS. In this tutorial I will demonstrate you how I have successfully upgraded my test Ubuntu 18.04 LTS VM to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS.
Before proceeding further with Ubuntu 18.04 LTS to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS upgrade, I suggest you take important data backup from your system as during or after Ubuntu upgrade roll back of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS to previous Ubuntu version won’t be possible.
You can download Ubuntu 20.04 LTS OS ISO from here
Upgrading Ubuntu 18.04 LTS to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Keep existing Ubuntu 18.04 LTS packages up to date before upgrading to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS. Launch update-manager for keeping your existing Ubuntu system packages up to date.
- Restart your system once prompted for restart after applying updates.
- After system restart launch update-manager again for start upgrading Ubuntu 18.04 LTS to Ubuntu 20.04 LTS. Click on upgrade once prompted.
- You might need to put your login password if you are upgrading your system from non-privilege user id. After putting password, you will be presented with the Release Notes for the release you’re about to upgrade to. Click on upgrade again for initializing the process.
- Ubuntu upgrade process has been initialized.
- Reconfirm the upgrade process by clicking on Start Upgrade when prompted again since in this stage Ubuntu update-manager has gathered the information of number of packages which need to download, install and upgrade.
- Once upgrade process has started you cannot lock your system, also please do not interrupt the upgrade process else system will become unstable.
- Once Ubuntu upgrade finish you will be prompted for restarting the system. Click on Restart Now.
Verification of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS after upgrade
Use below command to verify upgraded kernel along with Ubuntu version.
Glimpse of Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS login screen
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS Desktop
- Ubuntu 20.04 LTS Applications menu
Charanjit is passionate about automating tasks and improving processes. He uses tools like Terraform and Azure DevOps to build and manage cloud infrastructure and streamline deployment. He also enjoys using Shell scripts and Ansible playbooks to make systems run more efficiently.
In his free time, Charanjit enjoys learning about new technologies and sharing his knowledge through his blog. When he’s not working, he likes listening to music, having a cup of coffee, and relaxing in nature.
You can connect with Charanjit on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or email him at charanjit.cheema@cjcheema.com.