Control Panel for Ubuntu Server 20.04: 3 Installation Steps

• What is the Control Panel for Ubuntu Server 20.04?

• 10 Features and Improvements in Ubuntu Server 20.04 LTS

• 6 Benefits of Using a Control Panel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

• 3 Steps to Install CloudPanel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

• 4 Best Control Panels for Ubuntu Server 20.04

• 8 Security Considerations for Control Panel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

• FAQs

• Summary

What is the Control Panel for Ubuntu Server 20.04?

A Control Panel for Ubuntu Server 20.04 is a web-based interface. It simplifies server admin, allowing users to handle tasks.

A Control panel for Ubuntu 20.04 allows you to manage with an easy-to-use GUI. It removes the need for CLI commands. With this web panel, you can:

• Set up server settings

• Manage MySQL databases

• Check performance

• Handle backups and security.

Popular panels handling an Ubuntu VPS or dedicated server are easier. This saves time and cutting complexity. They provide valuable tools for website or server management. It is ideal for beginners and experts.

10 Features and Improvements in Ubuntu Server 20.04 LTS

1. Performance Boost in GNOME Shell

When you install Ubuntu 20.04, you will immediately notice the faster response of the GNOME 3.36 desktop environment. Many improvements were made to the core of GNOME Shell. It is smoother and more responsive for users.

2. Linux Kernel 5.4 for Enhanced System Support

Ubuntu focal LTS uses the Linux 5.4 kernel. It brings better hardware support and WireGuard VPN for secure connections. It also supports Livepatch, allowing you to update the kernel without rebooting. This is a significant advantage for servers running Ubuntu 20.04.

3. Improved ZFS File System Support

Focal LTS fully supports ZFS, offering features like clones and snapshots. These features were experimental before, but now they are stable. This makes Ubuntu more reliable for enterprise and production use.

4. Fractional Scaling for High-Resolution Displays

With Ubuntu Focal, you can now use fractional scaling on high-resolution monitors. You can choose from 100%, 125%, 150%, 175%, and 200% scaling options directly in the settings. This makes it easier to use high-DPI displays without extra tweaks.

5. Better Multi-Monitor Setup and Configuration

For users with multi-monitor setups, Ubuntu 20.04 simplifies configuration. You can adjust monitor positioning, scaling, and dock settings to meet your needs. This makes it easier to use multiple monitors at once.

6. Redesigned Lock and Sign In Screens

Focal has a fresh design for the lock screen and sign-in screens. The design is clean and modern. From the desktop environment menu, you can now choose between Ubuntu and Ubuntu on Wayland.

7. New Dark Mode and Updated Theme

Ubuntu 20.04 introduces a dark mode. This is easier on your eyes, especially in low light. The default theme has also been updated, with folder icons now dark grey instead of orange. You can choose from Light, Standard, and Dark window color options. They are available in the Appearance settings.

8. Software App as Snap

In Focal, the Software app is now a Snap package. This improves server performance and security. It provides a more reliable way to manage applications, making installation and removals faster.

9. Updated Applications

Ubuntu 20.04 includes the latest versions of apps like Firefox 75, Thunderbird 68.7, and LibreOffice 6.4.2. The calculator app is now the apt version, replacing the Snap version. This improves compatibility and performance on the Ubuntu Focal server.

10. OEM Vendor Logo During Boot

Focal shows the OEM vendor logo during boot and the Ubuntu logo. The boot sequence includes a new animation. This makes the startup process smoother and more polished.

6 Benefits of Using a Control Panel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

Benefit	Details
Simplified Server Admin	A control panel on Ubuntu Focal provides a user-friendly web portal to manage servers. You don’t need to use complex command-line commands. This makes server setup much easier.
Easy Database Control	You can easily manage databases through the online portal. No need for the CLI, making data control much easier.
Time-Saving Features	It automates tasks like backups, updates, and app installations. This offers one-click installers for popular website apps, saving you time.
Multi-Server Admin	If you manage multiple servers, a control panel lets you control them from one dashboard. It handles server resources quicker and simpler.
Enhanced Security	It helps set up a firewall, manage SSL certificates, and control user access. This makes your server safer and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Simplified Hosting Management	A web hosting control panel makes it easy to manage: -- Domain names - Domain system records - Email accounts for multiple websites. It is perfect for website hosting services.

3 Steps to Install CloudPanel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

Step 1: Install Necessary Dependencies

• Make sure your server has the required dependencies:

  1. gnupg2

  2. curl

• Run the following command to install them:

apt install \-y gnupg2 curl.

Step 2: Download and Execute the CloudPanel Installer

• Use curl to download the installation script by running this command:

curl -sS https://installer.cloudpanel.io/ce/v2/install.sh -o install.sh.

• Run the script with bash:

bash install.sh.

• After installation, you will see a message with the URL to access CloudPanel.

Step 3: Access CloudPanel

• Open your web browser and enter the URL https://your-server-ip:8443.

• If you see a security warning about the self-signed SSL certificate, click “Advanced” and then “Proceed to [your-server-ip] (unsafe)”.

• The user creation screen for CloudPanel will appear.

• Enter your username and password, then click “Create User”.

• After that, you will see the CloudPanel sign-in screen.
• Log in with your admin credentials and click “Log In”.
• You will be taken to the CloudPanel Dashboard.
• Click “ADD SITE” to create a new site.

• Choose “Create a WordPress Site”.

• Enter your WordPress site details and click “Create”.

• After that, click “Back to Sites” to see your new WordPress site.

4 Best Control Panels for Ubuntu Server 20.04

1. CloudPanel

CloudPanel is a modern, free web hosting control panel for remote server hosting environments. It offers a user-friendly web portal to manage databases on Ubuntu hosts.

Key Features:

• Optimized for cloud hosting, ensuring efficient resource management.

• One-click installations for PHP and Nginx with automatic setup.

• Real-time server monitoring for resource use and performance.

Best For:

CloudPanel is ideal for businesses or individuals running cloud servers on Ubuntu. It handles remote infrastructure simply with minimal resource usage.

Pros:

• It works well for remote servers, making them easy to manage.

• CloudPanel has a simple design that anyone can use.

• It uses fewer resources, helping the server run faster.

Cons:

• CloudPanel does not have all the tools, which makes it easy to use and focuses on the basics.

• It offers fewer add-ons, which keeps things simple and lets users focus on what they need most.

2. Webmin

Webmin is used to manage Linux servers through an online portal. It can feel outdated compared to modern control panels.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple Linux distros, including Ubuntu 20.04.

• User management and access control.

• Modular with a range of extensions.

Best For:

Webmin is best for system administrators needing flexible server admin. It does not provide the cloud-specific features that CloudPanel offers.

Pros:

• Free with a strong community.

• Easy to install and set up.

Cons:

• The interface is outdated compared to CloudPanel.

• Requires more manual setup for tools.

• Remote server hosting features are lacking.

• Plugin support is not as vast as CloudPanel.

3. Virtualmin

Virtualmin is built on Webmin. It offers features for virtual servers and website hosting. It is more complex than CloudPanel, making it harder to set up and use.

Key Features:

• Supports virtual hosting and multi-server admin.

• SSL certificate management.

• Advanced name system and data control.

Best For:

Virtualmin is for those who handle multiple Ubuntu or virtual hosts.

Pros:

• Highly customizable for complex setups.

• Free and open-source.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve.

• More complex setup compared to CloudPanel.

• Remote server hosting optimization is limited.

• The interface can be overwhelming.

4. cPanel

cPanel is a website hosting control panel offering a full suite of features. It is more expensive than CloudPanel.

Key Features:

• Automatic updates and security patches.

• Easy management of domains and email accounts.

• Integrated backup and restore tools.

Best For:

cPanel is ideal for hosting companies and resellers. It is more expensive and less efficient than CloudPanel for remote environments.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface for beginners.

• Widely used with extensive support.

Cons:

• Paid solution, no free version.

• Resource-heavy on small systems.

• Not cloud-optimized like CloudPanel.

8 Security Considerations for Control Panel on Ubuntu Server 20.04

Security Consideration	Details
Access Control	Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Limit sign-in attempts using tools, especially for web applications.
SSL/TLS	Enable SSL/TLS encryption for your control panel, allowing secure data transmission. It protects against unauthorized access.
SSH Keys	Disable direct root sign-in and set up SSH keys for secure logging into your server admin. This helps reduce brute-force attacks.
Server Hardening	Disable unnecessary services and use tools. Set proper file permissions to avoid unauthorized access to your database server files.
Firewall	Set up UFW to allow only necessary gateways (e.g., SSH, HTTP, HTTPS) and block others. This will limit your exposure to threats.
Backups	Set up regular server admin and data backups to ensure recovery after a breach or failure.
Software Updates	Keep your system and control panel updated with the latest security patches. This protects against known vulnerabilities.
DDoS Protection	Use DDoS protection services to protect your server from attacks. Enable rate limiting to avoid service disruptions.

FAQs

1. Can I manage a domain name using a control panel on Ubuntu 20.04?

The control panel allows you to manage domain names. You can easily add domain system records and link your domain to the server.

2. How can I manage a VPS on Ubuntu 20.04 with aapanel?

You can manage a VPS running Ubuntu Focal with aapanel. It provides a simple portal to set up the server, install apps, and monitor performance.

3. What is the role of a control panel in handling Ubuntu 20.04 Focal?

A control panel for Ubuntu 20.04 provides a simple web portal. It helps to manage your server, eliminating the need for complex command-line commands.

4. How do I protect my server from malware with a control panel on Ubuntu Focal?

With CloudPanel, you can protect your server from malware. It lets you scan for malicious files and set up firewalls to block harmful traffic.

5. Can I quickly set up PHP releases with a Ubuntu Focal control panel?

The control panels let you switch between different PHP releases easily. You can also add additional PHP modules using their simple interfaces.

Summary

A control panel for Ubuntu Server 20.04 is a web panel that provides a web interface to manage your server. It helps you set up settings, manage databases, and monitor performance. Consider the following benefits:

• Simplified Server Admin: Manage your server easily with a user-friendly interface.

• Easy Data Control: Handle MySQL and PostgreSQL databases without using the CLI.

• Enhanced Security: Set up firewalls, manage SSL certificates, and control user access easily.

Explore the Hosting Control Panel and easily manage your Ubuntu Server 20.04.