Install Ubuntu 20.04 on RPI4

by Philippe Florent · Published August 29, 2023 · Updated October 9, 2023

Quick one to explain how to install Ubuntu 20.04 that apparently never had a desktop version for RPI4.

One have to install the Server version using RPI Imager, then install manually the desktop packages.

On startup, it will ask for the default ubuntu user/pass: ubuntu and, then prompt for a new password.

Once logged on, uninstall the unattended upgrades. if it is running, reboot and use the history to relaunch the uninstall.

sudo apt remove unattended-upgrades

Install OpenSSH

sudo apt install openssh-server net-tools -y
sudo ufw allow ssh

Install ubuntu desktop

sudo apt update -y && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktop

Replace Ubuntu by PI user

Create an administrator pi user in the UI.

Set it’s password from the shell for more flexibility.

Apparently the ubuntu user cannot be removed

sudo passwd pi

Miscelaneous

Disable auto blank screen and screen lock

Then to setup another keyboard Region & Language/Manage installed languages/Install languages.

Then Add input source… and pick your favourite keyboard layout.

Recent Posts