Linux Server Basics: From Installation to Basic Configuration

Linux servers are the preferred choice for servers due to their stability, security, open-source nature, and ease of customization. Before installation, download the Ubuntu Server or CentOS Stream image, create a bootable USB using Rufus or dd, and boot from the USB drive at startup. During installation, select the language and time zone; for beginners, automatic partitioning is recommended. Set up a regular user and check the option to install OpenSSH. After installation, restart and log in. For basic configuration, set a static IP (using Netplan for Ubuntu and NetworkManager for CentOS), manage software with apt/yum/dnf, create a regular user, and disable direct root login. Use ufw on Ubuntu and firewalld on CentOS to enable the firewall. Subsequent learning topics include web server, database, and Docker deployment, with practice being key.