Ubuntu Server 25.10 does not include wget by default in its installation (contrary to popular belief, not due to the issue with Rust)

Ubuntu Server 25.10 is set to undergo some significant changes, as announced by John Chittum, Engineering Manager at Canonical. In a move aimed at targeting duplicate functionality while maintaining a well-equipped default server installation, Canonical is replacing the long-standing command-line download tool, wget, with "wcurl" as the default download tool in the standard installation of Ubuntu Server 25.10.

For those unfamiliar, wget has been a standard command-line download tool on Linux systems for years. On the other hand, wcurl is a simple curl wrapper that allows file downloads without remembering curl parameters. Fresh Ubuntu Server 25.10 installations will include wcurl instead of wget. However, fear not, as wget will continue to receive security updates throughout the release lifespan, even though it is not installed by default. Existing servers upgraded from previous versions will retain their current wget installations.

If wcurl doesn't suit your workflow, wget can be restored by running a specific command. The transition from wget to wcurl is being carried out now, ahead of Ubuntu 26.10's development cycle.

In addition to the change in download tools, Ubuntu's server team is streamlining default packages, eliminating redundant tools, and reducing duplicate functionality in the default installation. This includes the removal of GNU Screen and Byobu, and the adoption of Tmux as the default terminal multiplexer.

The article about these changes was published on Omg! Ubuntu. For those interested in supporting the platform, there is an option to become a Plus Member on Omg! Ubuntu.

These changes do not affect the availability of wget for use on Ubuntu Server 25.10. Wget will remain in the 'supported' seed group, officially supported by Canonical but not installed by default.

Wcurl handles basic downloading, including parallel downloads, redirects, file overwrite protection, and automatic filename selection. With its user-friendly interface, wcurl aims to provide similar functionality as wget while catering to the needs of modern server environments.

These changes mark an exciting step forward for Ubuntu Server 25.10, as it continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its users. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the release of Ubuntu Server 25.10.

Ubuntu Server 25.10 does not include wget by default in its installation (contrary to popular belief, not due to the issue with Rust)