How to Upgrade Ubuntu to a Newer Version

  • Post category:Ubuntu

Upgrading your Ubuntu system is essential for keeping your system secure and up-to-date with the latest features. Whether you prefer using the command line or a graphical interface, upgrading Ubuntu is a simple process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through both methods for upgrading your Ubuntu version.

Pre-Upgrade Checklist

Before upgrading, ensure that your system is ready:

  1. Backup Important Data: Always back up your important files to prevent data loss during the upgrade.
  2. Update Your Current System: Run the following commands to update your system:
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt upgrade
   sudo apt dist-upgrade
  1. Install Update Manager: Make sure the update-manager-core package is installed:
   sudo apt install update-manager-core

Method 1: Upgrade Using the Command Line

Step 1: Check for New Releases

To check if a new Ubuntu version is available, run:

sudo do-release-upgrade -c

Step 2: Start the Upgrade Process

If a new version is available, initiate the upgrade by running:

sudo do-release-upgrade

Step 3: Follow the Prompts

During the upgrade, follow any prompts that appear by typing y and pressing Enter to proceed.

Step 4: Reboot Your System

Once the upgrade is complete, reboot your system to finalize the changes:

sudo reboot

Method 2: Upgrade Using the Graphical Interface

Step 1: Open Software Updater

Search for “Software Updater” in your applications menu and open it.

Step 2: Check for Updates

The Software Updater will check for available updates. If a new Ubuntu version is available, it will notify you.

Step 3: Start the Upgrade

Click on the Upgrade button to start the process.

Step 4: Follow On-Screen Instructions

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade. You may need to enter your password to confirm the upgrade.

Step 5: Reboot Your System

After the upgrade is complete, reboot your system to apply all changes.

Additional Notes

  • Upgrading Between LTS Versions: If you are upgrading between Long Term Support (LTS) versions (e.g., from Ubuntu 20.04 LTS to 22.04 LTS), ensure you follow sequential upgrades.
  • Development Releases: If you want to upgrade to a development release, use the -d flag with do-release-upgrade, but be cautious, as development releases can be unstable.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Ubuntu system is easy and keeps your system running smoothly with the latest features and security updates. Whether you prefer the command line or the graphical interface, following these steps ensures a successful upgrade.

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