Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions available today. Based on Debian, it is a user-friendly and powerful operating system suitable for both beginners and advanced users. If you’ve just completed installing Ubuntu 20.04, there are a few critical steps you should take to enhance system performance, security, and usability.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the 15 essential things to do after installing Ubuntu 20.04.
1. Update Your System
The first step after any fresh Ubuntu installation is to ensure your system is up-to-date.
Using GUI:
- Open Software Updater from the application menu.
- The updater will check for new updates.
- Click Install Now to apply the updates.
- Restart your system after the updates are installed.
Using Terminal:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
Enter your password when prompted and press Y when asked for confirmation.
2. Enable Additional Repositories
Ubuntu may disable some repositories by default. Enabling them gives you access to more software.
- Open Software & Updates from the application menu.
- Navigate to the Other Software tab.
- Check the boxes to enable any disabled repositories.
- Authenticate using your password when prompted.
3. Install Missing Drivers
Ubuntu usually detects most drivers, but sometimes you need to install them manually (e.g., for graphics cards).
- Go to Software & Updates > Additional Drivers tab.
- Wait for Ubuntu to detect hardware-specific drivers.
- Select and apply the recommended driver, then restart your system.
4. Install Multimedia Codecs
Ubuntu does not include all media codecs by default due to licensing issues.
To install them, run:
sudo apt install ubuntu-restricted-extras
You’ll be prompted to accept a license agreement during installation.
5. Install GNOME Tweaks Tool
GNOME Tweaks allows customization of themes, fonts, icons, and extensions.
sudo apt install gnome-tweak-tool
Once installed, open Tweaks from the application menu to start customizing your desktop.
6. Connect Online Accounts
You can connect services like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft to Ubuntu.
- Open Settings > Online Accounts.
- Click on the desired service and log in with your credentials.
- This enables integration with system apps like Calendar, Mail, and Files.
7. Set Up Your Email with Thunderbird
Ubuntu comes with Thunderbird, a powerful email client.
- Open Thunderbird from the applications.
- Enter your name, email, and password.
- Thunderbird will auto-detect settings and connect your account.
8. Enable the Firewall
Ubuntu includes UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) but it’s disabled by default.
To enable it:
sudo ufw enable
To manage UFW through a graphical interface:
sudo apt install gufw
Open GUFW from the application menu to configure your firewall settings easily.
9. Install Synaptic Package Manager
Synaptic provides a graphical interface for APT, making it easy to search, install, and manage software.
sudo apt install synaptic
Once installed, open Synaptic from the application menu, authenticate, and begin managing packages.
10. Install Your Favorite Browser
Ubuntu comes with Firefox pre-installed. If you prefer Chrome:
- Open Firefox.
- Search “Download Google Chrome.”
- Go to the official website: https://www.google.com/chrome/
- Download the
.debfile. - Install it via Terminal:
cd Downloads
sudo apt install ./google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
11. Install VLC Media Player
VLC is a reliable media player supporting nearly every video and audio format.
Install via Snap:
sudo snap install vlc
Learn more at https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
12. Improve Battery Life with TLP
TLP is a power management tool for laptops to extend battery life.
Install with:
sudo apt install tlp
sudo tlp start
It works in the background to optimize power usage. Official website: https://linrunner.de/tlp/
13. Install a System Monitor
System monitors help track resource usage. One great choice is htop:
sudo apt install htop
Run it using:
htop
14. Install GDebi Package Installer
GDebi allows you to install .deb packages with ease and resolves dependencies.
Install it using:
sudo apt install gdebi
15. Enable Minimize on Click for the Dock
By default, clicking an open app’s icon in the dock won’t minimize it. To enable this:
gsettings set org.gnome.shell.extensions.dash-to-dock click-action 'minimize'
This change enhances usability, especially for users coming from Windows environments.
Conclusion
Following these 15 steps after installing Ubuntu 20.04 ensures that your system is secure, efficient, and tailored to your needs. From enabling repositories to installing essential software, this setup process helps you get the most out of your Ubuntu experience.
If you’re new to Ubuntu or Linux in general, this article will serve as a solid foundation to get started confidently.
Tags:
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Hashtags:
#Ubuntu #Linux #UbuntuTips #OpenSource #UbuntuSetup #Ubuntu20_04 #LinuxGuide #BeginnerLinux
