How to Install ifconfig on an Ubuntu Server

Effective network configuration management is vital in web hosting, regardless of your server setup – whether it’s a dedicated server, VPS server, cloud hosting, or shared hosting. Tools providing insights into network settings are invaluable.

Traditionally, `ifconfig` has been a staple on Linux systems. However, recent Ubuntu versions no longer include `ifconfig` by default, favoring the `ip` command instead.

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough on how to install `ifconfig` on Ubuntu.

Let’s begin!

Step 1: System Update

Before installing new software, updating your system’s package list is recommended. This ensures you’re using the latest software versions.

sudo apt update

Step 2: Installing the net-tools Package

`ifconfig` is included in the `net-tools` package. Install it using the following command:

sudo apt install net-tools

Step 3: Installation Verification

After installation, verify that `ifconfig` is installed successfully:

ifconfig

This command displays a list of active network interfaces and their respective configurations.

root@geeks:~# ifconfig
eth0: flags=4163  mtu 1500
        RX packets 3649121  bytes 340874633 (340.8 MB)
        RX errors 0  dropped 0  overruns 0  frame 0
        TX packets 1519298  bytes 1155190746 (1.1 GB)
        TX errors 0  dropped 0 overruns 0  carrier 0  collisions 0

lo: flags=73  mtu 65536
        RX packets 874929  bytes 730840536 (730.8 MB)
        RX errors 0  dropped 0  overruns 0  frame 0
        TX packets 874929  bytes 730840536 (730.8 MB)
        TX errors 0  dropped 0 overruns 0  carrier 0  collisions 0

Step 4: Essential ifconfig Commands

While primarily known for displaying network configuration, `ifconfig` offers additional functionalities:

ifconfig [interface]     # Show configuration for a specific interface
ifconfig [interface] up  # Activate a network interface
ifconfig [interface] down  # Deactivate a network interface

Command Summary

• sudo apt update – Refreshes the package list for updates and new installations.
• sudo apt install net-tools – Installs the `net-tools` package, including `ifconfig`.
• ifconfig – Displays the network configuration for all active network interfaces.
• ifconfig [interface] – Shows the configuration for a specific interface.
• ifconfig [interface] up – Activates the specified network interface.
• ifconfig [interface] down – Deactivates the specified network interface.

FAQ

1. Why is `ifconfig` not pre-installed on newer Ubuntu versions?

   The `ifconfig` command has been superseded by the `ip` command as the standard network interface configuration tool in newer Ubuntu versions. The `ip` command offers expanded capabilities and is considered more robust and versatile.

2. Can I use both `ifconfig` and `ip` commands on the same system?

   Yes, both `ifconfig` and `ip` commands can be used concurrently on the same system. They operate independently, and users can choose their preferred tool.

3. Are there advantages to using `ifconfig` over the `ip` command?

   While `ifconfig` is older and less feature-rich, its syntax and output are familiar to many administrators and users. Ultimately, the choice often depends on personal preference and familiarity. However, for complex network configurations, the `ip` command’s versatility is preferable.

4. How can I uninstall `ifconfig` if it’s no longer needed?

   To uninstall `ifconfig`, remove the `net-tools` package using the command `sudo apt remove net-tools`.

5. Are there security concerns associated with using `ifconfig`?

   `ifconfig` doesn’t pose inherent security risks. However, as with any tool, it’s crucial to prevent unauthorized access to system commands. Implement standard security measures, such as strong passwords and restricting root access.

Conclusion

Understanding and managing a server’s network configuration is a fundamental skill for webmasters and server administrators. Despite `ifconfig` not being the default in newer Ubuntu versions, its familiar and straightforward output makes it a popular choice.

By following this guide, you can easily install `ifconfig` on your Ubuntu system.

Whether you’re working on dedicated or shared hosting, tools like `ifconfig` can provide valuable network insights, assisting in optimization and troubleshooting.