How to Install Jenkins Automation Server on Ubuntu 21.10 LTS

If you’re serious about CI/CD, Jenkins is still a powerhouse. It’s open-source, flexible, and battle-tested by teams everywhere. In this guide, I’ll walk you through installing Jenkins on Ubuntu 21.10 LTS. No fluff, just what you need to get it running.

Why Jenkins?

Jenkins automates builds, tests, and deployments. Whether you’re managing a single app or orchestrating enterprise pipelines, Jenkins can scale with your needs—thanks to its plugin ecosystem and open architecture.

Prerequisites

Before we jump in, make sure you have:

• Ubuntu 21.10 LTS (server or desktop)
• A user with sudo privileges
• Java installed (Jenkins needs it)
• Internet access for downloading packages

Step 1: Update Your System

Start by updating your system packages.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install Java

Jenkins requires Java (either OpenJDK 11 or 17). Let’s install OpenJDK 11:

sudo apt install openjdk-11-jdk -y

Verify the installation:

java -version

You should see something like:

openjdk version "11.0.x"...

Step 3: Add the Jenkins Repository

First, add the Jenkins Debian package repository key:

wget -q -O - https://pkg.jenkins.io/debian-stable/jenkins.io.key | sudo apt-key add -

Then add the Jenkins source list:

sudo sh -c 'echo deb https://pkg.jenkins.io/debian-stable binary/ > /etc/apt/sources.list.d/jenkins.list'

Update the package list again:

sudo apt update

Step 4: Install Jenkins

Now install Jenkins:

sudo apt install jenkins -y

Step 5: Start and Enable Jenkins

Enable Jenkins to start at boot and then start it:

sudo systemctl enable jenkins
sudo systemctl start jenkins

Check if it’s running:

sudo systemctl status jenkins

You should see active (running).

Step 6: Adjust Firewall (If Needed)

If you’re using UFW, allow traffic on port 8080:

sudo ufw allow 8080
sudo ufw reload

Step 7: Access Jenkins in Browser

Open your browser and go to:

https://<your-server-ip>:8080

You’ll be prompted for an initial admin password.

Get it with:

sudo cat /var/lib/jenkins/secrets/initialAdminPassword

Paste it in your browser and follow the setup wizard. You can install the suggested plugins or pick your own.

Done. Jenkins is Live.

Now you’re ready to create your first pipeline or connect Jenkins to GitHub, Docker, or Kubernetes.

Final Thoughts

Jenkins might not be the newest kid on the block, but it’s a workhorse that can power serious automation. Once it’s installed, the real work begins—building efficient pipelines and scaling your workflow.

Want help setting up your first Jenkins job or automating deployments? Drop a comment or reach out—I’ll help you get moving fast.