How to install Nextcloud 9 on Ubuntu 16.04 as a Snap

Introduction

In today’s digital landscape, cloud storage solutions have become indispensable for individuals and organizations alike. Among various options, Nextcloud stands out as a robust, open-source platform that enables users to manage their files, calendars, contacts, and much more within a secure and flexible environment. Installing Nextcloud on Ubuntu 16.04 via Snap is a relatively straightforward process that combines the benefits of cloud storage with the ease of Snap package management. This article provides an in-depth guide on how to install Nextcloud 9 on Ubuntu 16.04 as a Snap, complete with detailed instructions, useful tips, and a comprehensive FAQ section.

What is Nextcloud?

Before delving into the installation process, let’s take a moment to explore what Nextcloud is and why it has garnered such popularity.

Key Features

1. file sharing and Synchronization: With Nextcloud, you can seamlessly share files and synchronize them across various devices. This feature is especially crucial for collaborative work.

2. Calendar and Contacts: Users can not only store files but also manage calendars and contacts directly within the platform, making it a comprehensive personal data management tool.

3. Self-Hosted Solution: One of the key advantages of Nextcloud is that you can host it on your own server. This feature provides greater control over data privacy and security compared to commercial cloud services.

4. Extensible: Nextcloud offers a rich ecosystem of apps that can be integrated for functionality enhancements, such as chat, document editing, and more.

Why Use Snap for Installation?

Snap is a package management system developed by Canonical that simplifies the software installation process on Linux systems like Ubuntu. Here are a few reasons why using Snap for installing Nextcloud can be beneficial:

• Automatic Updates: Snap packages can automatically update in the background, ensuring you’re always using the latest version of the software.

• Isolation: Snap applications run in a confined environment, increasing security and reducing the risk of conflicts with system libraries.

• Easy Rollback: Should you experience issues with an update, Snap allows for easy rollback to previous versions.

Having set the stage, let’s dive into the installation process.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding with the installation, ensure the following prerequisites are met:

1. Ubuntu 16.04 System: You should be running a clean installation of Ubuntu 16.04. If your system is not up to date, run:
   bash
   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Snap Installed: Though Snap usually comes pre-installed with Ubuntu 16.04, you can check if it’s installed by running:
   bash
   snap version

   If it’s not installed, you can install it with:
   bash
   sudo apt install snapd

3. Sufficient Storage: Make sure your server has enough disk space to accommodate Nextcloud and the data it will manage. A minimum of 1-2 GB is recommended for initial installation.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Install Nextcloud Snap

The first step is to install the Nextcloud Snap package. Open your terminal and run the following command:

bash
sudo snap install nextcloud

This command will fetch the latest Nextcloud package and install it on your system. The installation process is automated, so it may take a moment to complete.

Step 2: Initial Setup

After the installation is complete, you can access Nextcloud through a web browser. To do this, you first need to configure the web server:

1. Find Your Server’s IP Address: You can find your server’s IP address using the command:
   bash
   hostname -I

2. Access Nextcloud: Open a web browser and enter http://<your-server-ip>/nextcloud. You should see the Nextcloud setup page.

Step 3: Create an Admin Account

On the setup page, you’ll be prompted to create an admin account. Fill in the required fields, including a username and a strong password. You will also need to specify a data folder for Nextcloud, such as:

/var/snap/nextcloud/common/nextcloud/data

Step 4: Configure Your Database

Nextcloud uses a database to manage its data effectively. By default, the Snap installation uses SQLite, which is ideal for small installations. However, if you’re planning on a more extensive setup, it is advisable to use MySQL or PostgreSQL.

1. Install MySQL or PostgreSQL: If you choose MySQL, you can install it by running:
   bash
   sudo apt install mysql-server

2. Set Up the Database: Secure the database installation and create a new Nextcloud database. For MySQL, run the following commands:
   bash
   sudo mysql_secure_installation
   mysql -u root -p
   CREATE DATABASE nextcloud;
   CREATE USER ‘nextclouduser’@’localhost’ IDENTIFIED BY ‘your_password_here’;
   GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON nextcloud.* TO ‘nextclouduser’@’localhost’;
   FLUSH PRIVILEGES;
   EXIT;

Step 5: Connect Nextcloud to Your Database

Return to the Nextcloud web interface and under Database settings, select MySQL as your database type. Provide your database name, username, and password.

Step 6: Complete the Installation

Once the database is connected, click on the “Finish Setup” button. You can now log in to your newly created Nextcloud account.

Additional Configuration Steps

Enable HTTPS

Security is paramount, especially for cloud storage. It’s advisable to enable HTTPS to encrypt data transferred between the server and clients.

You can easily set up HTTPS using Let’s Encrypt, which provides free SSL certificates.

1. Install Certbot:
   bash
   sudo snap install core; sudo snap refresh core
   sudo snap install –classic certbot

2. Obtain SSL Certificate:
   bash
   sudo certbot –apache

Follow the prompts to configure your SSL certificate.

Set Up external storage (Optional)

If you have other storage solutions (like an existing cloud service or external hard drives), you can integrate them into Nextcloud for easier access.

To enable external storage support, navigate to the Nextcloud app store and install the External Storage Support app.

Regular Backups

Setting up a regular backup of your Nextcloud data and database is crucial. You can use automated scripts or tools tailored for your environment to ensure that your data is routinely backed up.

Conclusion

Installing Nextcloud 9 on Ubuntu 16.04 as a Snap package is a highly beneficial endeavor for anyone looking to take control of their cloud storage needs. With its vast array of features, exceptional security offerings, and the simplicity that Snap brings to the installation process, Nextcloud stands as a compelling alternative to traditional cloud storage solutions.

Whether you’re an individual looking to store personal files or a business in need of a secure collaborative environment, Nextcloud can meet your needs effectively. Follow the steps laid out in this guide, and you’ll have your Nextcloud instance up and running in no time, ready for use as your personalized cloud storage solution.

FAQ

1. Can I install Nextcloud on other operating systems besides Ubuntu 16.04?

Yes, Nextcloud can be installed on various Linux distributions, including but not limited to Debian, Fedora, and CentOS. However, the installation steps may differ depending on the underlying system.

2. What is the difference between Snap and traditional package management?

Snap is a universal package format that isolates applications from system dependencies, ensuring greater compatibility and security. Traditional package management installs applications in a more conventional way, which may lead to dependency conflicts.

3. How do I update Nextcloud Snap?

Nextcloud installed via Snap updates automatically by default. However, you can manually trigger an update by running:
bash
sudo snap refresh nextcloud

4. Can I use Nextcloud offline?

Yes, Nextcloud can be used offline, and changes made while offline will sync when the connection is restored. However, certain features may require an internet connection.

5. Is Nextcloud free to use?

Yes, Nextcloud is open-source software, and you can use it for free. However, some additional third-party apps or services may incur costs.