Beginner's Guide: Steps to Update and Upgrade Ubuntu System

When using Ubuntu, regularly updating and upgrading the system is crucial for maintaining security, stability, and access to new features. For beginners, this might seem a bit complex, but with the right steps, it can be done easily. This article will explain how to update and upgrade your Ubuntu system in simple language, step by step.

Why Update the System?¶

In simple terms, updating your system is like patching a phone or repairing a house. It can:
- Fix security vulnerabilities: Close system holes that hackers might exploit, enhancing security.
- Add new features: Software developers often introduce new features or optimize existing ones through updates.
- Improve performance: Resolve performance issues in older versions, making the system run smoother.

Step 1: Open the Terminal¶

The terminal is Ubuntu’s “command-line window” where all system operations are performed.
How to open the terminal:
- Shortcut: Press Ctrl + Alt + T (the most common way to open the terminal in Ubuntu).
- Graphical interface: Click “Show Applications” in the bottom-left corner, search for “Terminal”, and open it.

Step 2: Update Package Lists (Critical!)¶

Before updating the system, you need to refresh the package list (like telling the system “what updates are available”).
Command:

sudo apt update

• sudo: Run the command with administrator privileges (you’ll need to enter your password).
• apt: Ubuntu’s package management tool for installing and updating software.
• update: Refresh the software source list (fetch the latest package information from servers).

Steps:
1. Enter the command and press Enter. The system will prompt for your password (characters won’t appear on the screen; just press Enter to confirm).
2. Wait for the command to complete. The system will list all available updates and source information.

Step 3: Upgrade Installed Software¶

After updating the package list, you can now upgrade the software on your system.
Command:

sudo apt upgrade

• upgrade: Upgrade all installed packages to their latest versions.

Steps:
1. After running the command, the system will display a list of updatable packages and ask for confirmation (e.g., 0 upgraded, 10 newly installed, 0 to remove and 0 not upgraded. Need to get 25.0 MB of archives.).
2. Type y and press Enter to confirm the update. The system will start downloading and installing updates; this may take a few minutes (depending on network speed and the number of packages).

Step 4: Clean Up the System (Optional but Recommended)¶

After updates, the system may leave behind “cache files” and “unnecessary dependencies.” Cleaning them frees up space:
- Remove unused dependencies:

  sudo apt autoremove

This command automatically removes software dependencies that are no longer needed (e.g., if a software is uninstalled, its dependencies may also be removed).

• Clear cached files:

  sudo apt clean

This command deletes downloaded package caches to free up storage space.

Step 5: Upgrade to the Latest Ubuntu Version (Advanced)¶

If you want to upgrade from an older Ubuntu version (e.g., 20.04 to 22.04), use this command:
Command:

sudo do-release-upgrade

• This command checks for and prompts you to upgrade to the latest Ubuntu version (e.g., 22.04 LTS).

Notes:
- Version upgrades may take time and carry risks (e.g., data loss). Always back up important data before upgrading.
- Ensure a stable network connection during the upgrade; do not interrupt the process.

Common Issues and Solutions¶

1. Problem: Error “Could not get lock” when running sudo apt upgrade?
   Cause: Another update process is running (e.g., background downloads).
   Solution: Wait for the process to finish, restart your computer, or run sudo rm /var/lib/dpkg/lock-frontend to force unlock.

2. Problem: Slow update speed?
   Solution: Try changing the software source (e.g., use a domestic mirror like Alibaba Cloud or Tsinghua Source). New users are advised to stick with the default source first and experiment with changes later.

3. Problem: Upgrade fails or freezes?
   Solution: Restart your computer and try again, or refer to the Ubuntu official documentation (help.ubuntu.com).

Summary¶

The core steps for system updates are:
1. Open Terminal → 2. sudo apt update (refresh sources) → 3. sudo apt upgrade (install updates) → 4. Clean up caches.
Develop the habit of regular updates to keep your Ubuntu system in optimal condition. If you encounter issues, stay calm—restarting the system or checking online resources usually resolves them.

Hope this article helps you easily master Ubuntu system updates!