We assume that every developer has deployed something on a Ubuntu VPS at some point. It’s often a default option, and many don’t question what makes it this way.
Ubuntu is recommended for use in tutorials, GitHub guides, and community answers, and people don’t think twice about it. Because of that, a VPS with Ubuntu OS can seem too trivial to use. However, it’s so popular because of the advantages it offers.
In this article, we will explore the five reasons that make the Ubuntu VPS a choice trusted by developers.
Reason 1: Ubuntu OS is intuitive
If you have ever used Ubuntu OS, you probably know what we’re talking about here. After using it a few times, you stop focusing on the operating system and start thinking about your application or server.
The navigation itself is intuitive: file paths make sense, configuration files are located strategically, and commands just work. This reduces the mental load when working with a server.
You don’t need to spend extra time figuring out how to navigate the OS; everything feels familiar and thus more reliable.
Basically, the Ubuntu OS gives you fewer “surprises” in server environments, which increases the general productivity.
Reason 2: VPS documentation is written with Ubuntu in mind
When issues with VPS start to occur, and you look for information to troubleshoot them, you will find that guides are written with Ubuntu in mind.
The steps for deploying backend apps, installing and configuring Docker and Nginx, and setting up firewalls are usually designed for the Ubuntu OS.
It doesn’t mean that the other systems aren’t capable of completing the same steps, but Ubuntu seems to be the exemplary one.
So, when you use Ubuntu VPS, you have the privilege of spending less time on interpreting the instructions and more time on fixing problems.
Reason 3: Ubuntu increases server reliability
There’s a high chance that something will eventually go wrong unexpectedly; for these cases, server recovery must be quick and easy.
Besides the fact that various restoration techniques assume the use of Ubuntu, the system itself makes it easier to carry out updates and security patches and restore the system from backups.
Even when you turn to the technical support of your VPS provider, issues with Ubuntu servers are likely to be solved faster because of how widely spread and familiar the system is.
Reason 4: Ubuntu-like environments get the most tools
Automation is an essential part of development now. CI pipelines, provisioning, and scripts are barely done manually anymore.
Most of these tools work best with Ubuntu-like systems. Their installation and management are designed for integration with certain packages and service managers, directory structures, and backup and monitoring tools.
And if their design doesn’t exclude other operating systems, it’s often tested on Ubuntu first.
Reason 5: Ubuntu complements VPS functionality
Choosing an operating system for a server is usually a matter of functionality, not personal preference. The operating system becomes yet another functional layer on the server.
Ubuntu is great for servers, virtual private servers (VPSs) especially, because it blends into the background, doesn’t need consistent supervision, and doesn’t cause unnecessary friction.
It just helps the server run and doesn’t interfere. This is part of the reason why using Ubuntu feels intuitive.
“Default” Doesn’t Mean “Weak”
The prevalence of the Ubuntu operating system in VPS solutions feels justified. It’s so commonly used because it’s trusted by many developers and regular users.
Ubuntu may not offer an extravagant experience and many possibilities for experimentation, but it offers one important thing: verified stability. And this is exactly what you would want from the OS for your server.
