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If you're a system administrator or server enthusiast who prefers managing your Linux systems with a user-friendly interface rather than through the terminal, then Cockpit is the perfect tool for you. In this post, we’ll explain how to install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04, based on the reliable and updated guide from Vultr: Ubuntu 24.04 is the latest long-term support (LTS) version, and pairing it with Cockpit gives you a modern, secure, and visual way to manage your server.

What is Cockpit?

Cockpit is a free, open-source, lightweight web-based graphical user interface (GUI) for Linux servers. It allows users to perform tasks such as:

• Monitoring CPU, memory, disk, and network performance

• Managing system services, logs, and storage

• Adding and removing user accounts

• Starting or stopping containers (Docker and Podman)

• Running terminal commands in an integrated browser-based shell

Cockpit is ideal for users who are new to Linux server management or for professionals who want a faster way to monitor and control their systems.

Why Use Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04?

Ubuntu 24.04 provides the latest security updates, kernel improvements, and package enhancements. When you install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04, you gain:

• A real-time overview of system health

• The ability to administer multiple servers from one interface

• Built-in tools for troubleshooting

• A minimal learning curve for new administrators

• Secure remote access to your server via any web browser

Prerequisites

Before installing Cockpit, ensure the following:

• You’re running Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

• You have sudo or root access

• Your system has an active internet connection

• UFW (firewall) is configured if enabled

How to Install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04

Let’s go through the step-by-step process, adapted from Vultr's Guide.

Step 1: Update Your System

Keeping your system updated helps prevent compatibility issues:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install Cockpit

Cockpit is included in the Ubuntu repositories, so you can install it with one simple command:

sudo apt install cockpit -y

This command installs the Cockpit service along with all necessary dependencies.

Step 3: Enable and Start the Cockpit Service

Enable the Cockpit socket so it starts automatically on boot:

sudo systemctl enable --now cockpit.socket

You can check if the service is running with:

sudo systemctl status cockpit.socket

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

Step 4: Open Cockpit Port in the Firewall (Optional)

If you’re using UFW, allow traffic on port 9090:

sudo ufw allow 9090/tcp

sudo ufw reload

Step 5: Access Cockpit Web Interface

Open your preferred browser and navigate to:

https://<your-server-ip>:9090

• Use your system username and password to log in.

• If prompted, accept the self-signed SSL certificate.

You will now be able to access the full Cockpit dashboard from your browser.

Features You Can Explore in Cockpit

Once logged in, here’s what you can do:

• System Monitoring – View real-time performance metrics

• Logs & Journal – Troubleshoot using system logs

• Services – Start, stop, enable or disable services

• Storage – Manage partitions, disks, and mount points

• Networking – Configure IPs, bridges, and firewall rules

• Terminal – Use the built-in command line for advanced tasks

Final Thoughts

Using Cockpit is one of the easiest ways to monitor and manage your server without relying entirely on the command line. If you're new to Linux or simply want to save time, install Cockpit on Ubuntu 24.04 and enjoy a fully functional, browser-accessible control panel for your server.

This tool doesn’t replace your CLI skills — it enhances them by offering quick insights and easy access. It’s especially useful for managing multiple servers or when troubleshooting remotely.

For full details and advanced configurations, check out the complete tutorial from Vultr:Have you tried Cockpit on your Ubuntu server? Share your experience and tips with others in the thread below!