This chapter provides an overview of how to install Ubuntu Server Edition. See also the guide on :ref:`how to operate the installer <operate-server-installer>` for more information on using the installer, and the :ref:`screen-by-screen guide <screen-by-screen>` for more information about each of the installer screens.
Ubuntu Server Edition provides a common, minimalist base for a variety of server applications, such as file or print services, web hosting, email hosting, etc. This version supports four 64-bit architectures:
..warning:: Power failures, configuration mistakes, and other problems occurring during disk (re-)partitioning can result in complete data loss. Always back up your data before performing an installation of a new system.
Download the amd64 Server Edition from `releases.ubuntu.com <https://releases.ubuntu.com/>`_. Choose the version to install and select the :guilabel:`Server install image` download. Note that the Server download includes the installer.
There are many ways to boot the installer but the simplest and most common way is to `create a bootable USB stick <https://ubuntu.com/tutorials/create-a-usb-stick-on-ubuntu>`_ (`tutorials for other operating systems <https://ubuntu.com/search?q=%22create+a+bootable+USB+stick%22>`_ are also available).
..note:: See your computer manual for instructions on how to select the boot source. You can also watch the screen during computer (re)start for a message with what key to press to access settings or a boot menu. Depending on the manufacturer, this can be :kbd:`Escape`, :kbd:`Enter`, :kbd:`F2`, :kbd:`F10` or :kbd:`F12`. Restart your computer and hold down this key until the boot menu appears, then select the drive with the Ubuntu installation medium. See also `Ubuntu Community documentation on booting from CD/DVD <https://help.ubuntu.com/community/BootFromCD>`_.
The installer is designed to be easy to use and have sensible default settings. For a first installation, you can accept the defaults:
#. Choose your language.
#. Update the installer (if offered).
#. Select your keyboard layout.
#. Do not configure networking (the installer attempts to configure wired network interfaces via DHCP, but you can continue without networking if this fails).
#. Do not configure a proxy or custom mirror unless you have to in your network.
#. For storage, leave :guilabel:`Use an entire disk` checked, and choose a disk to install to, then select :guilabel:`Done` on the configuration screen and confirm the installation.
#. Enter a username, hostname and password.
#. On the :guilabel:`SSH Setup` and :guilabel:`Featured Server Snaps` screens, select :guilabel:`Done`.
#. You now see log messages as the installation is completed.
#. Select :guilabel:`Reboot` when this is complete, and log in using the username and password provided.
