How to Install FreedomBox on Ubuntu Server

FreedomBox is an open-source software that enables users to run a private server on their device to make it easier to host and maintain services. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the installation of FreedomBox on Ubuntu Server.

Prerequisites

Before we start, you need to make sure that you have the following requirements:

  • Ubuntu Server: Latest stable version
  • Root or sudo user access

Step 1: Add FreedomBox repository to Ubuntu sources

First, we need to add the FreedomBox repository to the Ubuntu Server sources list.

  1. Open the terminal on Ubuntu by pressing the CTRL+ALT+T shortcut key.

  2. Now, run the following command to add the FreedomBox repository:

    $ sudo sh -c "echo 'deb https://freedombox.rocks/updates buster main' > /etc/apt/sources.list.d/freedombox.list"

  3. Once you have added the repository, you need to update the server's sources list by running the following command:

    $ sudo apt update

Step 2: Install FreedomBox Package

With the FreedomBox repository added and the sources updated, we can now install the FreedomBox package.

  1. Run the following command to install FreedomBox:

    $ sudo apt install freedombox

  2. You will be prompted to confirm the installation process. Type Y and hit the Enter key to proceed.

  3. Wait for the installation process to complete.

Step 3: Accessing FreedomBox Web Interface

After the installation process, the FreedomBox web interface will be available and can be accessed using a web browser.

  1. Open a browser and enter the following URL: https://<hostname>/plinth/, replace <hostname> with the hostname or IP address of your server.

  2. The browser will show a certificate warning. Click on the Advanced or Details button and select Proceed to <hostname> (unsafe) to continue.

  3. You will be prompted to create a new administrative user account. Fill in the necessary details and click on the Create account button.

  4. You will now have access to the FreedomBox web interface.

Congratulations, you have successfully installed FreedomBox on Ubuntu Server! You can now use this private server to host and maintain services.