How to Upgrade Apache on Ubuntu

This guide will demonstrate how to upgrade Apache on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04 LTS releases using the command-line terminal. Upgrading your Apache server is critical in maintaining a secure, high-performing, and stable web environment along with other key advantages such as:

• Enhanced Performance: Upgrading to the latest version of Apache ensures optimal server performance, as each release is designed with improvements and optimizations.
• Security Updates: Regular upgrades provide crucial security patches, protecting your server from emerging vulnerabilities.
• Access to New Features: New releases introduce additional features and functionalities, allowing for more efficient and streamlined server management.
• Bug Fixes: Updating Apache addresses and rectifies any bugs or issues found in previous versions, resulting in a more stable and reliable server environment.
• Ondřej Surý’s Repository: This reputable third-party repository offers an easy way to install the latest Apache version without compiling from the source.

Stay tuned as we guide you through the simple steps to upgrade your Apache server, ensuring it remains a robust foundation for your web applications.

Update Ubuntu Before Apache Upgrade

Update your system before beginning the installation process to avoid potential conflicts. This proactive step ensures that your system’s packages are up-to-date and compatible with the installation, facilitating a smoother and more successful upgrade process.

In your terminal, run the following command:

sudo apt update

You can proceed with the following command to upgrade any outdated packages on your system. This will ensure that your system has access to the latest software versions, which can result in improved performance and security:

sudo apt upgrade

Import Apache LaunchPAD PPA on Ubuntu

To upgrade the Apache webserver to the latest version, add Ondřej Surý’s repository as an initial step. Ensure you have installed the following packages:

sudo apt install dirmngr ca-certificates software-properties-common apt-transport-https

Next, import the repository using the following command:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:ondrej/apache2 -y

Proceed to Upgrade Apache on Ubuntu

The next step involves updating your repository to reflect the new changes. To do this, run the following command:

sudo apt update

After adding the PPA, install the latest Apache version or upgrade your existing one. Most users should run the installation command, even with Apache already on the system, to ensure installation of the latest version and update of all necessary dependencies.

To install the latest Apache version, use the following command:

sudo apt install apache2

To ensure that Apache is running correctly, you can use the systemctl command. This command allows you to check Apache’s status and verify that it is up and running as intended.

systemctl status apache2

If Apache isn’t activated or running, use the following command to start the web server application:

sudo systemctl start apache2

To enable Apache on system boot, use the following command:

sudo systemctl enable apache2

Remove Apache Upgrade From Ubuntu

If you need to remove the upgraded Apache version and restore the standard Ubuntu version, you can do so by following these steps:

First, stop the Apache service by using the following command:

sudo systemctl stop apache2

Next, remove Apache by using the following command:

sudo apt remove apache2

If you had imported the PPA to upgrade Apache, you could remove it by using the following command:

sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:ondrej/apache2 -y

Finally, to reflect the changes made to the APT sources list entries, run the following command:

sudo apt update

At this point, you can re-install the standard Apache version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, use the APT package manager and Ondřej Surý’s repository to update Apache on Ubuntu. Upgrading to Apache’s latest version allows you to access new features and improvements, boosting your web server’s performance and stability. Moreover, adjusting the UFW rules ensures visitor accessibility to your web server while upholding essential security and protection.