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Managing Linux servers through the command line is powerful but can be intimidating and time-consuming, especially for new users or small teams. That’s where Cockpit comes in — a modern, lightweight, web-based interface that simplifies system administration. In this post, we'll cover everything you need to know to install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04, with steps adapted from the official Vultr documentation: 

What is Cockpit?

Cockpit is a web-based GUI that allows Linux users to manage their servers visually. It provides real-time access to:

• System performance (CPU, memory, disk usage)

• Network interfaces and firewall rules

• System logs and services

• User management

• Storage configuration

• Containers and virtual machines (with plugins)

It’s ideal for sysadmins, developers, and anyone who wants a simple but powerful dashboard for managing Linux systems.

 Why Use Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04?

Ubuntu 24.04 is the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) release and comes with the latest kernel, security updates, and performance improvements. Combining it with Cockpit gives you:

• A modern GUI to control your server

• Easy service monitoring and control

• Better insights into system health

• Support for managing other servers from one dashboard

• Simple troubleshooting using logs and live graphs

 Prerequisites

Before you begin to install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04, ensure:

• You are running Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

• You have sudo/root access

• Internet connection is active

• A web browser is available to access the Cockpit dashboard

 How to Install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04

Follow these easy steps from Vultr’s official guide:

Step 1: Update the System

First, open your terminal and make sure your packages are up to date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install Cockpit

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

sudo apt install cockpit -y

This command installs the Cockpit web interface and necessary system dependencies.

Step 3: Start and Enable Cockpit Service

Enable the Cockpit socket so it starts automatically on boot:

sudo systemctl enable --now cockpit.socket

Check that it’s running:

sudo systemctl status cockpit.socket

You should see output showing that the Cockpit service is active and listening.

Step 4: Adjust the Firewall (If Applicable)

If you're using UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall), allow access to Cockpit’s port:

sudo ufw allow 9090/tcp

sudo ufw reload

Step 5: Access the Cockpit Web Interface

Open a browser and go to:

• Log in using your Ubuntu system username and password.

• Accept any SSL warning (Cockpit uses a self-signed certificate by default).

Once logged in, you’ll see a full dashboard to monitor and manage your server.

 What You Can Do with Cockpit

Here are a few features to explore once installed:

• Monitor system usage: Real-time CPU, RAM, disk, and network statistics

• Manage services: Start, stop, enable, or disable services easily

• View logs: Access journal logs for troubleshooting

• User accounts: Add or remove users without the command line

• Terminal access: Built-in terminal for advanced tasks

• Add more servers: Manage multiple machines from a single interface

Final Thoughts

Choosing to install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04 brings ease, efficiency, and control to Linux system administration. It’s particularly useful for those who want a visual alternative to the terminal, or need to manage multiple servers quickly.

Cockpit is lightweight, modular, and secure — making it an ideal companion to any Ubuntu server. With just a few commands, you can install and start managing your system from any browser, anywhere.

Have you tried Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04? Share your experience or tips below!