Immich

How to Install Immich on Ubuntu 24.04 VPS with Docker Compose

Philip Jensen

— 3 min read

Introduction

If you're looking to set up a reliable photo backup server on your Ubuntu 24.04 VPS, Immich is an excellent open-source solution. It allows you to organize, browse, and share your photos securely. At ByteHosting, we understand the importance of a straightforward, beginner-friendly setup process. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to install Immich on Ubuntu VPS using Docker Compose, ensuring a smooth deployment even if you're new to server management.

Prerequisites: Setting up Your Ubuntu 24.04 VPS

Before we begin, make sure you have a fresh Ubuntu 24.04 VPS. If you haven't already, choose a suitable plan from ByteHosting, such as our Xeon - 4GB or Xeon - 6GB options, which are perfect for hosting applications like Immich. Once your VPS is ready, connect via SSH:

ssh your_username@your_server_ip

Replace your_username and your_server_ip with your actual server login details. Now, let's prepare the server for the installation.

Installing Docker and Docker Compose on Ubuntu

Step 1: Update Your System

Start by updating your package list and upgrading existing packages:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Install Docker

Docker is essential for containerizing Immich. Install it with the following commands:

sudo apt install apt-transport-https ca-certificates curl software-properties-common -y
curl -fsSL https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu/gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg

echo "deb [arch=$(dpkg --print-architecture) signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/docker-archive-keyring.gpg] https://download.docker.com/linux/ubuntu $(lsb_release -cs) stable" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/docker.list

sudo apt update
sudo apt install docker-ce docker-ce-cli containerd.io -y

Verify Docker installation:

docker --version

Step 3: Install Docker Compose

Docker Compose simplifies managing multi-container applications. Install it with:

sudo curl -L "https://github.com/docker/compose/releases/latest/download/docker-compose-$(uname -s)-$(uname -m)" -o /usr/local/bin/docker-compose
sudo chmod +x /usr/local/bin/docker-compose

Check the installation:

docker-compose --version

Downloading and Configuring Immich with Docker Compose

Step 1: Create a Directory for Immich

Organize your files by creating a dedicated folder:

mkdir ~/immich && cd ~/immich

Step 2: Create a Docker Compose File

Use your preferred text editor to create docker-compose.yml:

nano docker-compose.yml

Paste the following configuration, which sets up Immich with necessary services:

version: '3.8'

services:
  immich:
    image: ghcr.io/immich-app/immich:latest
    container_name: immich
    restart: unless-stopped
    ports:
      - "3000:3000"
    environment:
      - IMMICH_HOST=http://localhost:3000
      - IMMICH_STORAGE_PATH=/app/storage
    volumes:
      - ./storage:/app/storage

Step 3: Save and Exit

Save the file and exit your editor (for nano, press CTRL+X, then Y, then Enter).

Starting Immich and Accessing the Web Interface

Step 1: Launch Immich

Run Docker Compose to start the service:

docker-compose up -d

This command downloads the Immich image and runs it in detached mode. You can check if the container is running with:

docker ps

Step 2: Access Immich

Open your web browser and navigate to http://your_server_ip:3000. You should see the Immich setup page. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial configuration.

Troubleshooting Common Issues and Final Checks

  • Port conflicts: Ensure port 3000 is open in your server's firewall. Use ufw allow 3000 if necessary.
  • Container not starting: Check logs with docker logs immich for errors.
  • Persistent storage: Make sure the storage directory exists and has proper permissions.

Once everything is running smoothly, you can start uploading and managing your photos securely through Immich. Remember, at ByteHosting, we offer reliable VPS hosting in Frankfurt, perfect for hosting applications like Immich with high uptime and excellent support.

Conclusion

Deploying Immich on your Ubuntu 24.04 VPS is straightforward with Docker Compose. This guide provides a clear, beginner-friendly approach to get your photo backup server up and running. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, Immich offers a powerful way to organize your photos securely. If you need a dependable VPS to host your applications, consider our affordable plans at ByteHosting. We’re here to support your hosting needs with enterprise-grade infrastructure and excellent customer service.

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