Install Software on Linux: A Beginner's Guide
Software Installation on Linux: A Streamlined Approach
The process of installing software on Linux systems diverges from the conventional methods used on other operating systems. Rather than downloading directly from a website, users generally acquire software through their Linux distribution’s dedicated software repositories, utilizing a package manager.
While this may initially appear complex, it is often a more straightforward experience compared to installing software on Windows platforms.
Understanding Linux Package Management
The software installation system found in most Linux distributions shares significant similarities with an app store environment. It provides a centralized location for installing the majority of applications.
Furthermore, software updates are delivered in a standardized and consistent manner, simplifying system maintenance.
Key Benefits of the Linux System
- Centralized Software Access: A single point for most software installations.
- Consistent Updates: Software updates are delivered uniformly across the system.
- Simplified Installation: Often easier than traditional Windows installations.
The package manager handles dependencies automatically, ensuring that all required components are installed alongside the desired software. This eliminates potential compatibility issues.
This approach fosters a more stable and manageable software environment for Linux users.
Software Installation via Distribution Repositories
Related: Understanding Software Installation and Package Managers in Linux
The majority of applications you will need on your Linux system are readily available through its software repositories. Typically, your Linux distribution offers a user-friendly graphical interface for managing this system. Simply choose the package you want, and the package manager will automatically handle downloading it, along with any necessary dependencies, and complete the installation process.
Ubuntu users can utilize the Ubuntu Software Center, identifiable by its orange shopping bag icon in the dock. This interface allows you to search for applications, either by category – such as "video player" – or by specific name, like "VLC." Initiate the download, provide your password, and the package manager will manage the remainder of the installation.
While each Linux distribution features its own repositories and package manager, the underlying principle remains consistent across nearly all systems. For instance, Linux Mint users would employ the Software Manager application for similar functionality.
The graphical user interface serves as a convenient layer over the core package manager. This core functionality can also be accessed through the command line. On Ubuntu, the apt-get command provides a terminal-based method for package installation, achieving the same outcome as the graphical interface.
Installing Software Not Found in Repositories
This discussion pertains to installing software originating from sources outside of your Linux distribution’s standard repositories.
Certain applications, including well-known proprietary software like Google Chrome, Skype, Steam, and Opera, are not typically included in these repositories.
Obtaining Software from Official Sources
Due to licensing restrictions, Linux distributions generally lack the authorization to redistribute such software.
Therefore, acquisition must occur directly from the software developer’s official website.
Navigate to the project’s website and locate the Download button to begin the process.
Selecting the Correct Package
You will typically be presented with a selection of download links tailored to various Linux distributions.
It is crucial to choose the package that most closely corresponds to your specific distribution.
For instance, Skype provides a package labeled "Ubuntu 12.04 (multiarch)." Even if you are using a later version like Ubuntu 14.04, this is often the most compatible option.
Understanding Package Types
Different Linux distributions utilize different package formats, identified by their file extensions.
Deb packages, denoted by the .deb extension, are commonly used by Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Debian-based systems.
Conversely, Fedora, Red Hat, and openSUSE often employ .rpm packages.
Installation Process
In most cases, simply double-clicking the downloaded package will launch a graphical package installer.
This installer automates the installation process, handling dependencies and configuration.
For example, double-clicking a .deb file on Ubuntu will prompt you to click Install and enter your user password.
Alternative Installation Methods
While the graphical installer is the most user-friendly approach, alternative methods exist.
Experienced users can utilize command-line tools like dpkg -I to install packages directly from the terminal.
However, the graphical tool remains the recommended method for most users.
Alternative Software Installation Methods for Linux
Beyond the fundamental techniques previously discussed, Linux offers several additional avenues for software installation. These methods broaden your options and cater to diverse needs, ensuring you can access nearly any application you require.
Leveraging Third-Party Repositories: Independent developers and communities frequently establish their own software repositories. These repositories allow for the packaging and distribution of software outside of the official channels provided by your Linux distribution. Utilizing a third-party repository can be essential when seeking software unavailable through standard sources. Ubuntu, for instance, simplifies the process of setting up "Personal Package Archives" (PPAs). Adding these PPAs to your system’s package manager integrates their contents into your software management interfaces, like the Ubuntu Software Center.
Executing Binaries from Archive Files: Certain Linux applications are distributed as precompiled binaries, designed for compatibility across various Linux distributions without requiring a formal installation process. A common example is Skype’s "Dynamic" download, which comes as a .tar.bz2 archive. This archive functions similarly to a ZIP file; extracting it creates a folder containing the executable file, which can be launched directly. Mozilla also provides Firefox in .tar.bz2 format, enabling immediate execution upon extraction, bypassing the need for installation. However, utilizing packaged software is generally recommended for enhanced system compatibility and streamlined updates.
See Also: How To Compile and Install from Source on Ubuntu
Building From Source Code: While less common for typical Linux users, compiling software from source code remains an option. Ideally, most software should be readily available in packaged formats. However, software projects often distribute their source code, leaving the responsibility of packaging to Linux distributions. If a desired package is absent or an updated version is needed, compiling from source becomes viable. Although it may seem daunting, the process is often more manageable than anticipated.
Related: 4+ Ways to Run Windows Software on Linux
Running Windows Applications: Native execution of Windows software on Linux is not possible. Several solutions exist, including the Wine compatibility layer – which isn’t always flawless – and virtual machine installations of Windows, which incur significant system overhead. Prioritizing Linux-native software is advisable. These alternative methods are best reserved for applications without Linux equivalents, such as Netflix or Microsoft Office, but even then, expect a potentially less stable experience.
Your system’s package manager routinely checks for updates within its configured software repositories. The updater, such as the Update Manager on Ubuntu, notifies you when new versions are available. This centralized approach simplifies the process of keeping all software on your system current.
When you install a package from a third-party source, it may also configure its own software repository to facilitate future updates. For example, installing Google Chrome on Ubuntu automatically adds the official Google Chrome repository. Consequently, new Chrome releases will appear alongside other updates in the Update Manager, eliminating the need for individual, application-specific updaters.
Linux Commands | ||
Files | tar · pv · cat · tac · chmod · grep · diff · sed · ar · man · pushd · popd · fsck · testdisk · seq · fd · pandoc · cd · $PATH · awk · join · jq · fold · uniq · journalctl · tail · stat · ls · fstab · echo · less · chgrp · chown · rev · look · strings · type · rename · zip · unzip · mount · umount · install · fdisk · mkfs · rm · rmdir · rsync · df · gpg · vi · nano · mkdir · du · ln · patch · convert · rclone · shred · srm · scp · gzip · chattr · cut · find · umask · wc · tr | |
Processes | alias · screen · top · nice · renice · progress · strace · systemd · tmux · chsh · history · at · batch · free · which · dmesg · chfn · usermod · ps · chroot · xargs · tty · pinky · lsof · vmstat · timeout · wall · yes · kill · sleep · sudo · su · time · groupadd · usermod · groups · lshw · shutdown · reboot · halt · poweroff · passwd · lscpu · crontab · date · bg · fg · pidof · nohup · pmap | |
Networking | netstat · ping · traceroute · ip · ss · whois · fail2ban · bmon · dig · finger · nmap · ftp · curl · wget · who · whoami · w · iptables · ssh-keygen · ufw · arping · firewalld |
FURTHER READING: Best Linux Laptops for Developers and Enthusiasts