How to install the ArangoDB multimodal database on Ubuntu Server 20.04

ArangoDB is a powerful, open-source, multimodal database that supports graph, document, and key-value data models—all under one engine and one query language (AQL). Whether you’re building complex knowledge graphs, modern web apps, or microservices, ArangoDB gives you flexibility without the overhead of managing separate systems.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to install ArangoDB on Ubuntu Server 20.04, using the official package repository. Let’s get straight to it.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before anything else, make sure your server is up to date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Add the ArangoDB Repository

ArangoDB maintains its own APT repository. First, install the required tools to fetch the repository key:

sudo apt install -y curl gnupg

Then, import the public key:

curl -OL https://download.arangodb.com/arangodb37/DEBIAN/Release.key
sudo apt-key add - < Release.key

Now, add the repository to your system:

echo 'deb https://download.arangodb.com/arangodb37/DEBIAN/ /' | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/arangodb.list

Note: Adjust the repository URL if you’re installing a different version (e.g. ArangoDB 3.10+). This example uses 3.7 for compatibility and stability on Ubuntu 20.04.

Step 3: Install ArangoDB

Update the package list and install ArangoDB:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y arangodb3

Step 4: Configure and Start the Service

After installation, ArangoDB runs as a systemd service. Start and enable it:

sudo systemctl start arangodb3
sudo systemctl enable arangodb3

Check the service status:

sudo systemctl status arangodb3

You should see something like “active (running)” in the output.

Step 5: Set the Root Password

The first time you interact with ArangoDB, you’ll be prompted to set a root password. Run:

arangodb-secure-installation

Follow the prompt to set your admin credentials.

Step 6: Access the Web Interface (Optional)

ArangoDB includes a built-in web interface called ArangoDB Web UI. By default, it runs on:

https://your_server_ip:8529

To access it:

1. Open port 8529 in your firewall: sudo ufw allow 8529/tcp
2. Visit the IP in your browser and log in with the root password you set earlier.

Step 7: Start Using ArangoDB

You’re ready to roll. You can now use:

• arangosh – the interactive shell for running AQL commands.
• ArangoDB Web UI – for database and graph management.
• HTTP API – for app integration.

Wrap-Up

That’s it—ArangoDB is up and running on your Ubuntu Server 20.04. With its support for multiple data models, native joins, and ACID compliance, you’re well-equipped to handle everything from basic CRUD to complex graph traversals.

Need to scale out or cluster your setup? ArangoDB has solid docs on sharding and replication when you’re ready for the next level.

Have questions or run into issues? Drop a comment below.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!