9/17/21, 12:16 PM Linux FileMaker Server for Ubuntu | DB Services

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By Patrick Evans 
Posted on 
September 17th, 2021 
in 
FileMaker, Free Downloads

Linux FileMaker Server for Ubuntu

Are you a system manager who is familiar with Linux? A business owner who is tired of buying
expensive Windows licenses? Want to move your FileMaker hosting to the cloud but like to keep the
DIY spirit alive? As the FileMaker product expanded, Claris responded to the demand for Linux
compatibility and released installers with version 19. Below is an outline on how to install FileMaker
Server 19.3 on Ubuntu server. So warm up those digits, because we’re losing the GUI and typing our
way through this installation.

Hardware Considerations
Claris still has the same minimum hardware requirements as the other operating systems: dual-core
CPU with 8GB of memory (as of version 19.3). Not all server specs are equal, either. Older hardware,
even with the same specs, will likely be significantly slower. To get the best experience, we recommend
getting as close to the most recent generation of hardware as possible.

Ub t Fil M k S
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Ubuntu FileMaker Server Setup

First, you'll need access to an Ubuntu server running version 19. Then log in. We'll use our scripts to
both update the server and install FMS, so we will import them. We will be using vim, but feel free to
use your text editor of choice.

First, we'll create the file using the command "sudo vim script_update.sh".

After you hit enter, you'll see a new blank document. Press "i" to start editing the document's text.
Next, copy the text included in the script_update.sh file, and paste it into the Linux machine. Lastly,
press escape, then ":wq". This will write to the document and close out of the document. 

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Do the same as above for the script "script_installFMS.sh". Once that's done, you can use the command
"sudo chmod 755 script*.sh" to edit the permissions, allowing you to run these scripts.

Installing FileMaker Server

Now we can run our two scripts. First, run the update by typing "./script_update.sh". This will update
the server. If it's brand-new, it will also install programs necessary for us to install FileMaker Server.

Next, let's take a look at the script that downloads and installs FileMaker Server. The link used in this
script varies depending on the version. To make sure you have the correct link, you'll need to visit your
licensing page. You can then right-click the download link for the Ubuntu server and click "copy link
address". This will be the most up-to-date version, so if it differs from the information in the attached
script, you'll want to update it before running.

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Next, download and install FileMaker Server by typing "./script_installFMS.sh". Follow along with the
prompts in order to install the program.

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Once installed, the script will output all the processes that FileMaker installed. You should see them
listed. Another way to check the installation is by typing the command "fmsadmin list files".

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Server Configuration Recommendations

At this point, the installation is complete! However, at this stage your server is still running on a trial
license, so we'll want to load in your license.

Log into your server using your external IP address. The general format is "https://<external-
ip>:16000". We recommend using an SSL certificate, so be sure to load it in. As with normal FMS, you'll
need to restart the FileMaker Server service before the license will start functioning as expected. 

Lastly, navigate to the "Administration" tab in the admin console and import the license certificate.

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Now, you've accomplished the most basic setup!  All further configuration within the admin console is
no longer Linux-specific.

Limitations
WebD worker machine deployment is not currently supported. Users will not be able to install
the worker machine deployment method of FileMaker Server on Linux.
Custom web publishing using PHP and XML will not be supported. FileMaker Data API is
supported and can be used on the Linux version of FileMaker Server.
System scripts cannot be run with the standard fmserver user. You must specify a user account
on Linux to run system scripts by adding the user to the ect/sudoers file. See example below: 

Host_Alias FMSHOST = yourhostname

Defaults:fmserver targetpw, timestamp_timeout=0, passwd_tries=1

f ( )
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fmserver FMSHOST = (ALL) /opt/Library/FileMaker\ Server/Data/Scripts/*, /bin/kill

Conclusion
With a bit of know-how, it can be surprisingly easy to install FileMaker Server on a machine running
Ubuntu. This can keep your costs low while still running on an operating system that’s trusted by
developers. It’s also one of the earliest Linux distributions to adopt regular security updates and
release cycles. For the FileMaker community, this has been a welcomed change, and we look forward
to seeing more people utilize FileMaker Server on Linux. 

If you would like help installing your Linux FileMaker Server for Ubuntu or have questions, contact DB
Services to speak with FileMaker certified developers and get help running your system on the newest
FileMaker Server release.

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Did you know we are an authorized reseller for FileMaker Licensing?

Contact us to discuss upgrading your FileMaker software.

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Patrick Evans
Patrick is a certified FileMaker and web developer who values continual learning and
tackling new challenges as he works with his clients to deliver outstanding results.
Naturally empathetic, Patrick considers himself an intent listener, both which helps him
build great connections with customers.

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