How to Change Console Fonts in Ubuntu Server?

Console font customization in Ubuntu Server allows system administrators to improve readability and personalization of the command-line interface. The default console font may be too small or difficult to read, especially on older monitors or in low-resolution environments.

Benefits of Changing Console Fonts

Customizing console fonts offers several advantages for system administrators and users working in terminal environments.

Better Readability

The default Ubuntu Server console font can be challenging to read, particularly on older monitors or displays with low resolution. Changing to a larger or clearer font reduces eye strain and improves productivity during extended terminal sessions.

Server Identification

When managing multiple servers or working in team environments, custom console fonts help differentiate between systems at a glance, reducing the risk of executing commands on the wrong server.

User Preference

Different users have varying preferences for font styles based on readability requirements, aesthetic choices, or visual accessibility needs. Font customization ensures a comfortable working environment.

Identifying Available Console Fonts

Ubuntu Server includes several console fonts by default. To view currently available fonts, examine the console fonts directory:

ls /usr/share/consolefonts/

This command displays all available console fonts with .psf or .psfu extensions. You can also view the current console font configuration:

sudo showconsolefont

This displays information about the active font including size, character count, and filename.

Installing Additional Console Fonts

To expand your font options, you can download and install additional console fonts from repositories or font websites.

Downloading Font Files

Console fonts must be in .psf (PC Screen Font) or .psfu (PC Screen Font Unicode) format. You can find console-specific fonts from:

• Ubuntu font packages using apt search console-font

• Converting TrueType fonts using otf2bdf and bdf2psf

• Downloading pre-converted console fonts from font repositories

Installing Font Files

Copy downloaded console font files to the system directory:

sudo cp font-file.psf /usr/share/consolefonts/

Update the console font cache after installation:

sudo update-initramfs -u

Configuring Console Font

Configure the system to use your preferred console font by editing the console setup configuration:

sudo nano /etc/default/console-setup

Modify or add the following lines:

FONTFACE="Lat2-Terminus16"
FONTSIZE="16"

Replace Lat2-Terminus16 with your desired font name (without the .psf extension). Apply the changes:

sudo setupcon

Temporary Font Changes

For immediate font changes without permanent configuration, use the setfont command:

sudo setfont /usr/share/consolefonts/Lat2-Terminus20x10.psf.gz

This change applies only to the current session and will revert after reboot unless configured permanently.

Common Console Fonts

Conclusion

Changing console fonts in Ubuntu Server improves readability and provides a more comfortable working environment for system administrators. The process involves identifying available fonts, optionally installing new ones, and configuring the system through /etc/default/console-setup or using temporary commands like setfont for immediate changes.