Ubuntu 20.04 – Initial Server Setup

When you first create a new Ubuntu 20.04 server, you should perform some important configuration steps as part of the initial setup. These steps will increase the security and usability of your server, and will give you a solid foundation for subsequent actions.

Step 1 — Logging in as root

# ssh root@your_server_ip

About root

The root user is the administrative user in a Linux environment that has very broad privileges. Because of the heightened privileges of the root account, you are discouraged from using it on a regular basis. This is because the root account is able to make very destructive changes, even by accident.

The next step is setting up a new user account with reduced privileges for day-to-day use. Later, we’ll show you how to temporarily gain increased privileges for the times when you need them.

Step 2 — Creating a New User

# adduser cerbie