Nginx is one of the most popular web servers used for handling requests, load balancing, and working as a reverse proxy. Its high performance, flexibility, and stability make it an excellent choice for various tasks. This server successfully handles both small websites and large high-load projects. Let’s go through all the installation steps – from system preparation to fine-tuning the server.
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What is Nginx and What is it Used For?
Nginx is a web server that functions as a reverse proxy, load balancer, and caching server. It is designed to handle a large number of concurrent connections, making it an excellent choice for high-load projects.
- Serving static content (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, videos)
- Load balancing across multiple application servers
- Configuring Nginx on Ubuntu to forward requests to internal services
- Setting up caching to improve performance
- Enhancing security by protecting against DDoS attacks
Preparing Ubuntu/Debian System
Before installation, it is recommended to update the system:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yAdditionally, install necessary utilities:
sudo apt install curl software-properties-common -yInstalling Nginx
From the Standard Repository
The simplest way to install:
sudo apt get install nginxFrom the Official Nginx Repository
To install the latest version, you can manually add the official Nginx repository.
Checking Nginx Status
After installation, verify that the server is running:
systemctl status nginxYou can also check the server's operation by opening a web browser and navigating to http://localhost.
Basic Nginx Management Commands
- Start the server:
start nginx - Stop the server:
systemctl stop nginx - Restart the server:
systemctl restart nginx - Reload configuration without disconnecting clients:
systemctl reload nginx - Check the service status:
systemctl status nginx
Configuring Nginx on Ubuntu
Configuration files are located in /etc/nginx/, with the main configuration file being /etc/nginx/nginx.conf.
Before making changes, create a backup:
sudo cp /etc/nginx/nginx.conf /etc/nginx/nginx.conf.bakCheck the configuration for errors:
nginx -tSetting Up Virtual Hosts
Virtual hosts allow multiple websites to run on a single server. Configuration files are placed in a dedicated folder.
Configuring Access Rights and Firewall
To ensure Nginx operates correctly, allow access through the firewall:
sudo ufw allow 'Nginx Full'Check the status:
sudo ufw statusFinal Steps
After configuring, check for errors:
nginx -tRestarting the server will apply the settings:
systemctl restart nginxFurther Configuration Recommendations
Enabling SSL
For secure connections, you can install free SSL certificates from Let's Encrypt.
Configuring Nginx as a Reverse Proxy
Nginx can function as a reverse proxy, forwarding requests to another application.
Conclusion
Configuring Nginx is a crucial step for stable web server operation. After installation and basic setup, further adjustments can be made.
To improve performance, consider enabling gzip compression, activating HTTP/2, using caching, and implementing security measures against attacks.