Guide · Updated 2026-07-28
How to start learning ROS 2
A practical 2026 path to learn ROS 2: Humble tutorials, a simulator, and curated playlists from Get Into Robotics.
By Akshet Patel
Quick answer
To start learning ROS 2 in 2026: install ROS 2 Humble, follow a beginner Humble playlist, practise publisher/subscriber nodes, then move into Gazebo or Webots before joining a larger project such as Autoware or Duckietown.
Why ROS 2 (not classic ROS)?
ROS 2 is the modern Robot Operating System stack with stronger networking, security, and long-term support. Unless a specific university course still requires ROS 1, new learners should start with ROS 2 Humble.
A five-step learning path
- Install ROS 2 Humble on Ubuntu (or use a maintained Docker image if you need isolation).
- Complete a beginner Humble crash course or playlist from the ROS 2 resources list.
- Recreate the demos yourself: create a package, write a publisher and subscriber, and inspect topics with the CLI.
- Practise in a simulator—start with Gazebo or Webots.
- Apply skills on a small open-source robot or autonomy stack from the projects library.