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How to Install Incus Container in Ubuntu Linux

Richard
Written by
Richard
Nov 2, 2023 Updated Mar 19, 2026 2 min read
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You install Incus containers in Ubuntu Linux to create isolated environments for running applications efficiently.

Incus is a modern container and virtual machine manager, forking from the popular LXD project. It allows you to manage everything from a single laptop up to a cluster of 50 servers, offering a cloud-like experience on your PC.

You’ll use Incus to run multiple applications on your Ubuntu system without them interfering with each other, leveraging technologies like LXC and QEMU.

⚡ Quick Answer

Install Incus by first adding its repository to your system. Run `sudo apt update` and `sudo apt install incus` to install the software. Verify the installation with `incus version`.

Install Incus container on Ubuntu Linux

Ready to install Incus on Ubuntu? Here’s how you can do it as an alternative to other commercial platforms.

First, install the necessary prerequisites with the command below.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo apt install curl gnupg software-properties-common

Next, download Incus’s repository GPG key. This key is essential for installing packages from the repository.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo curl -fsSL https://pkgs.zabbly.com/key.asc -o /etc/apt/keyrings/zabbly.asc

Then, create a repository file.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo nano /etc/apt/sources.list.d/zabbly-incus-stable.sources

Copy the content provided and paste it into this file.

💻Code
Enabled: yes
Types: deb
URIs: https://pkgs.zabbly.com/incus/stable
Suites: jammy
Components: main
Signed-By: /etc/apt/keyrings/zabbly.asc

Remember to replace the highlighted placeholder with your Ubuntu version’s codename – you can find it within the /etc/os-release file.

Finally, update your system and install Incus using the command below.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo apt update
sudo apt install incus

Once installed, you can use the command below to verify that Incus is available on Ubuntu.

💻Code
incus version
incus --help

If you wish to remove the Incus container, run the command below.

🐧Bash / Shell
sudo apt remove --autoremove incus
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/zabbly-incus-stable.sources
sudo rm /etc/apt/keyrings/zabbly.asc

That should do it!

For more information and help creating instances, follow the link below.

Conclusion:

  • The Incus Container provides a lightweight, open-source solution for managing containers and virtual machines in Ubuntu Linux.
  • Its seamless cloud-like experience enables scaling from a developer’s laptop to a cluster of up to 50 servers.
  • Following the steps, users can easily install and utilize the Incus Container for efficient application management.
  • For additional guidance on creating instances and further information, visit the Incus Containers page.

What is the difference between Incus container and virtual machine?

When running an application container, Incus runs isolated applications within the host's operating system using container images, similar to how Docker operates. When running a virtual machine, Incus uses the hardware of the host system, but the kernel is provided by the virtual machine.

Can Incus run Docker containers?

Docker is created as a disposable app deployment system. Incus containers are not typically created as disposables, and data is kept inside when they are stopped. Because of the Linux kernel support nesting feature, you can run Docker inside Incus.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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