How To Enable Ubuntu Pro For FREE To Get 10 Years Of Security Updates

If you’re running Ubuntu, security matters. Keeping your system patched is non-negotiable, but did you know you can get 10 years of security updates for free? Enter Ubuntu Pro. Here’s how to enable it on your system without spending a dime.

What Is Ubuntu Pro?

Ubuntu Pro is Canonical’s expanded security maintenance subscription. It covers not just the core OS, but also thousands of extra packages in Ubuntu’s universe repository. This means more patches, for longer—up to 10 years, instead of the usual 5.

Who Gets Ubuntu Pro For Free?

Canonical offers Ubuntu Pro for free to:

• Personal users (for up to 5 machines)
• Official Ubuntu Community Members (up to 50 machines)

Perfect for home users, developers, and small teams.

Step-By-Step: Enable Ubuntu Pro For Free

1. Register For an Ubuntu One Account

First, you need a (free) Ubuntu One account. If you already have one, you’re set.

2. Open Your Terminal

All commands below work on Ubuntu 18.04, 20.04, 22.04, and later.

3. Attach Ubuntu Pro To Your Machine

Run:

sudo pro attach

This will prompt you to sign in. If you haven’t logged in before, you’ll be guided to do so with your Ubuntu One credentials. If you need your personal token, get it from your Ubuntu Pro Dashboard.

4. Enable Ubuntu Pro Features

By default, only “esm-infra” (Expanded Security Maintenance for infrastructure packages) is enabled. To get full coverage:

sudo pro enable esm-apps

5. (Optional) Check Your Ubuntu Pro Status

Make sure everything is working:

pro status

You should see that your machine is attached, and that “esm-infra” and “esm-apps” are enabled.

Why Bother With Ubuntu Pro?

• 10 years of updates (instead of 5)
• Coverage for thousands of additional packages (including Python, Node.js, Go, etc.)
• No cost for individuals and small-scale users

FAQs

Q: Does this work on Ubuntu flavors (like Kubuntu, Xubuntu, etc.)?
Yes, as long as they’re based on supported Ubuntu LTS releases.

Q: Do I have to reinstall my system?
Nope. You can enable Ubuntu Pro on any supported LTS install, anytime.

Q: Is it really free?
Yes—Canonical wants more users protected, so they’re offering this for free on up to 5 machines per user.

Final Thoughts

There’s no reason to leave your Ubuntu system unprotected. In just a few commands, you get a decade of security updates—free. Enable Ubuntu Pro now and keep your system safe.

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!