Cockpit works on almost all Linux distributions so if you already have a Linux system running then feel free to skip the Multipass article. If you haven’t done so yet, read that article to get an Ubuntu instance running first and come back here. We demonstrated how to install Linux virtual machines using a convenient tool by Canonical called Multipass in a previous article. Furthermore, it has an integrated terminal so you can continue to work on the command line while monitoring your systems. You can perform many common sysadmin tasks including managing user accounts, configuring firewalls, network settings, running containers and monitoring multiple Linux servers. Cockpit is an integrated web-based tool that can help simplify your Linux workflow and lower the learning curve for those new to Linux. IT Ops, SysAdmins and casual hobbyists will tend to perform varying tasks throughout the day to maintain, patch or monitor their Linux systems and servers, and this may include many tools spread across multiple terminals, browsers and scripts. Linux is extremely useful and powerful but due to its flexibility, extensibility, and versatility as an operating system with a plethora of utilities, it can be overwhelming for beginners and even seasoned veterans.

Installed Linux OS (this tutorial uses the Debian-based Linux distro Ubuntu).

This tutorial will walk you through installing the user-friendly Linux sysadmin web console tool Cockpit.

Install linux virtual machine