If you are a new user and have been using Ubuntu for a few days or weeks, you might wonder how to update your Ubuntu system to the latest version for security patches, bug fixes, and application upgrades. Then follow this guide till the end.
Here, we will share two ways to update your Ubuntu operating system to the latest version. You can use the methods to Update Ubuntu security and features. Also, you can check out our guide on installing and updating software applications in Ubuntu.
How to Update the Ubuntu Linux Operating System
Update and upgrade are two different options in Ubuntu. When you perform an update, it will only update the current version of Ubuntu with the latest features and security updates. On the other hand, when you perform an upgrade on Ubuntu, it looks for a newer version of Ubuntu. If available, your Ubuntu system will be upgraded to the newer version of Ubuntu.
Here are two different ways to update Ubuntu for both server and desktop versions: using the GUI and the Linux Terminal. To find out how you can follow the below-mentioned steps:
1. Update Ubuntu via GUI
The easiest method to update the Ubuntu operating system is by using the graphical user interface (GUI). You don’t need to run and terminal command. Here are the steps you can follow to update Ubuntu:
1. Click on the Show Application option.
2. On the search bar, search for Software Updater and open it.
3. Software Updater will search for available updates. If there are any updates, you will get this type of window to check the list of updates. If you want to update everything, leave everything checked.
4. Then, click on the Install Now button.
5. After that, you have to enter your password for authentication purposes. Type it in and press the [Enter] key.
6. Once you have authenticated, the installation will begin. It will take some time, so wait until the installation process is complete.
7. Once it is done, restart your device.
2. Update Ubuntu via Terminal
If you are an advanced user, you can also update the Ubuntu operating system using the Terminal. Here are the steps you can follow:
1. Open the Terminal app. You can also use the Ctrl + Alt + T keyboard shortcut to open it.
2. Now, to update your Ubuntu operating system you can run the following command at your terminal:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
Note
You can also use the two commands separately, one by one: sudo apt update
and sudo apt upgrade
The above command will not update the Ubuntu version (e.g., upgrading Ubuntu 22.04 LTS to 24.04 LTS). Instead, it will update Ubuntu with the latest security updates and upgrade the different packages installed on your Ubuntu system.
Things to Do After Updating Ubuntu
You have just learned how to update your Ubuntu system, but there are a few things to keep in mind regarding updating Ubuntu.
After an update, your system may have some unnecessary packages that are no longer required.
You can remove such packages and free up some space by using this command:
sudo apt autoremove
If it asked; “Do you want to continue?” Press the Y key. Now, wait for the process to complete. After that, you will need to restart your system. Now, you are ready to enjoy the updated Ubuntu.
That’s it! By following the above-mentioned steps, you can easily update the Ubuntu operating system. However, if you are experiencing issues while updating your Ubuntu, you can refer to our guide on fixing Ubuntu Update errors.