Installing software on Ubuntu Linux can feel like a leap into the unknown, especially if you’re transitioning from Windows or macOS. However, once you get acquainted with the fundamental concepts, navigating the Ubuntu ecosystem becomes much easier. Let’s delve into the various methods to install software on your Ubuntu machine.
1. Embracing the Power of APT
Each Linux distribution comes equipped with its own package manager, and for Ubuntu, it’s the Advanced Package Tool (APT).This versatile tool allows you to download software, manage dependencies, and install everything directly through the command line.
Installing software with APT is a breeze. For example, if you’re looking to add a popular media player like VLC, there’s no need to scour the internet for installers. Just open your terminal and run:
This command prompts the package manager to locate the necessary files, install them, and configure the application automatically.
Before installation, it’s wise to refresh your package list for the latest updates:
Need to remove a program? Simply input:
If you’re unsure of the package name, APT offers a handy search function. For instance, you can search for text editors with:
Even if you’re not a command line wizard, using APT simplifies the process of managing software on your system.
2. Friendly Software Center for the Visual Users
If the command line makes you uneasy, Ubuntu has your back with the Ubuntu Software Center, a graphical interface for software management. Here, you can browse, install, and remove applications effortlessly—without typing a single command.
To access the Software Center, just search for App Center in your Applications menu and open it.
From there, you can explore available software categories or use the search box to find specifics. Click on an application, followed by the Install button, and watch as it installs automatically.
In your search, you may come across two primary package formats: DEB and Snap. DEB is the traditional option for Ubuntu installations, while Snap packages offer a more secure, all-in-one solution that includes essential dependencies, albeit sometimes at a larger size.
3. Expanding Horizons with Third-Party Repositories
When the software you desire isn’t available in the default Ubuntu repositories, third-party repositories—or PPAs (Personal Package Archives)—come to the rescue. Maintained by developers and communities, they often provide access to cutting-edge software versions.
To add a useful PPA, use this command:
Once the PPA is added, update your package list so it recognizes the new source:
Now, you can install the software just like with any other package, and it will keep updating alongside your system’s software in the background.
4. Directly Installing Packages Manually
In cases where the software isn’t available in any repository, manual installation might be necessary. This involves downloading a package from the developer’s website, typically in the .deb format.
Download the DEB file from a reliable source, preferably to your Downloads directory. Open your terminal and navigate to where the file is located before running:
In case you encounter dependency errors, troubleshoot them with:
Alternatively, you may find software in source code formats, like .tar.gz or .zip. In this scenario, download the source archive and extract it. You can do this from a file manager or via the command line:
After extraction, enter the folder and look for a README or INSTALL file, which typically explains how to proceed with the installation. Before compiling, install the necessary development tools with:
Then, execute the following commands sequentially:
Here, ./configure checks for dependencies, make compiles the code, and sudo make install finalizes the installation.
5. Universal Package Formats: Simplifying Installation
Universal packaging formats like Snap and Flatpak have gained traction due to their ability to solve compatibility issues across various Linux distributions.
To use Snap packages, make sure Snapd is installed with:
Then, you can install Snap applications easily:
Flatpak works in a similar way. First, install Flatpak, then you can run:
For example, to install VLC using Flatpak, use:
Additionally, there’s the AppImage format, which consists of standalone applications needing no installation. Simply download the AppImage file, change its permissions to make it executable:
Then, run your application directly:
AppImages are highly portable, capable of running from a USB stick, providing incredible flexibility to your installation process.
Thus, whether you prefer terminal commands or graphical interfaces, Ubuntu offers a variety of choices for installing software, enabling you to customize your Linux environment optimally.
Image credit: Arnold Francisca via Unsplash. All alterations and screenshots by Haroon Javed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if a software package fails to install?
If a software package fails to install, check for dependency issues and try running sudo apt install -f to fix broken dependencies. You may also want to ensure that your package lists are up to date by running sudo apt update before trying again.
2. Can I use Snap and Flatpak together on the same machine?
Yes, both Snap and Flatpak can coexist on your Ubuntu system. They provide different methods of package management, and you can choose to use either or both for different applications, depending on your preference.
3. How do I uninstall a Snap or Flatpak application?
To uninstall a Snap application, use the command sudo snap remove package-name. For Flatpak applications, run flatpak remove package-name in the terminal. Both methods cleanly remove the applications from your system.
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