We generally use the LTS (Long Term Service) version of Zabbix, meaning while we are not always on the latest and greatest version, we are on a stable system that requires only minor upgrades. As of this writing (2023-10-07), that version is 6.0 LTS.

For many common platforms, Zabbix has a configuration tool that allows you to use their repository to install the most recent version of their agent (and server, if you want). You can view this at https://www.zabbix.com/download

Choose your configuration in step 1, then follow the instructions below. Really a nice tool.

Once the software is installed, you need a basic configuration. Zabbix comes with a heavily commented sample configuration file (in Debian and derivatives, in /etc/zabbix/zabbix_agentd.conf), but all you really need for a basic configuration is the Server IP address and the hostname.

Find and change them to the correct values

Server=127.0.0.1
Hostname=Zabbix server

NOTE: simply undefining the Hostname (setting it to blank, or commenting out) will tell the Zabbix agent to generate it from the hostname of the machine itself.

Restart the daemon. Assuming you have discovery turned on, just wait about an hour and it should show up on your server.