The Ubuntu Server image with Gladys pre-installed (GladysAssistant/ubuntu-server-gladys) automatically applies security updates via unattended-upgrades, but never restarts the machine. Kernel and system library updates therefore remain inactive until the user manually restarts, and most users never log in to the host to do so.
Ubuntu indicates that a restart is required with the file /var/run/reboot-required, and lists the affected packages in /var/run/reboot-required.pkgs.
Proposal
- Gladys detects this file (read-only mount of
/var/run/reboot-required*, or via the host on the official image) and displays a banner in the dashboard or settings: « A system update requires a restart ». - A « Restart now » button restarts the host.
Open Questions
- How can the container trigger a host restart? Several options exist: the already mounted Docker socket, a small systemd service (path/service) on the host side, or D-Bus/logind. Each has its own security risks.
- Should this feature be offered only on the official image, or on any Docker installation where the file is visible?
Context: Call for Contributors – Ubuntu Server Image with Gladys Pre-installed
Original GitHub issue: Show a "Restart now" banner when the host needs a reboot · Issue #3267 · GladysAssistant/Gladys · GitHub