What happened
Canonical released Ubuntu 26.04 LTS “Resolute Raccoon” on 23 April 2026. It is built on Linux 7.0 and adds platform and security changes including Arm64 Livepatch support, expanded memory-safe system components, updated hardware support and new server/cloud capabilities.
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is now the default reference point for new SmallGrid Ubuntu Server articles where the procedure has been checked on that release.
What this does not mean
SmallGrid will not rewrite every working Ubuntu 24.04 guide simply to change a version number.
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS remains supported, and many commands for storage, permissions, systemd, Docker and networking remain valid. Existing guides should be changed only when:
- package names differ
- repository support differs
- defaults or configuration formats changed
- the current kernel changes hardware behaviour
- the screenshots no longer match the task
- the procedure has been re-tested on 26.04
New guide standard
New Ubuntu Server tutorials should state:
Tested or verified Ubuntu release:
Kernel:
Architecture:
Package or application version:
Differences for Ubuntu 24.04:
Last verified:If a guide is source-verified but not yet run in the SmallGrid lab, it should say so directly.
Should an existing home server upgrade now?
Not automatically.
For an established 24.04 server, wait for a deliberate maintenance plan and the 26.04.1 point-release path unless there is a specific reason to move sooner. Backups, third-party repositories, Docker, Jellyfin, storage mounts, hardware acceleration and SSH access all need verification.
SmallGrid’s full 24.04-to-26.04 home-server upgrade guide remains scheduled for the 26.04.1 release window after the final release notes and commands can be tested.
Further reading
Keep the permanent fix nearby
Affected SmallGrid guides
Primary source
This update is based on the official announcement: Canonical Ubuntu 26.04 LTS announcement.