Install .deb Packages in Ubuntu 16.04 Without Ubuntu Software

Ubuntu 16.04 and Initial GNOME Software Issues

The release of Ubuntu 16.04 marked the debut of GNOME Software, intended as a new application management tool. However, a significant issue has surfaced shortly after its introduction.

Currently, users of Ubuntu 16.04 are encountering difficulties installing applications from third-party sources directly through the GNOME Software application.

Temporary Installation Workarounds

Canonical, the developer of Ubuntu, is actively addressing this problem and a resolution is anticipated. Until a fix is implemented, alternative methods exist for installing DEB packages.

These workarounds allow users to bypass the limitations of the Software app and successfully install the applications they need.

Alternative Installation Methods

While the GNOME Software app is unavailable for third-party installs, several options remain for installing DEB files.

• Utilize the command line with dpkg -i package.deb.
• Employ apt with sudo apt install ./package.deb to handle dependencies.

These command-line tools provide a reliable means of installing software packages until the GNOME Software application is fully functional.

GDebi: A Graphical Approach to .deb Installation

For users seeking a graphical interface to install .deb packages, GDebi Package Installer presents a viable solution. It functions as a complement to the standard Software application, enabling the installation of locally stored .deb files. GDebi excels as an independent installation tool, offering a simplified process and incorporating repository access for effective dependency resolution.

Installing GDebi

GDebi is readily available within the default Ubuntu 16.04 repositories. Therefore, the Ubuntu Software app itself can be utilized to install it. This may seem counterintuitive, given the initial issue with Ubuntu Software, but it provides a functional workaround.

Launch the Ubuntu Software application. In the search bar located at the top of the window, type "gdebi". The application will begin searching automatically as you type, displaying results promptly. You will observe two similar entries in the search results.

One entry represents the standard GDebi version, while the other is a modified version designed for the KDE Plasma desktop environment. Either version can be used for this purpose. However, selecting the non-KDE version is generally recommended.

Using GDebi to Install .deb Files

After GDebi is successfully installed, open your File Manager. Navigate to the directory containing the .deb file you wish to install. Typically, downloaded files are stored in the Downloads folder within your home directory (/home).

Right-click on the desired .deb file. From the context menu, select "GDebi Package Installer" from the "Open With" submenu. This will launch the file within the GDebi application.

Once the .deb file is opened in GDebi, locate and click the "Install Package" button in the upper-right corner of the window. You will be prompted to enter your system password for authorization.

GDebi will then automatically manage the installation process, including resolving any dependencies. The installation is complete when the "Install Package" button changes to display "Remove Package".

Important Note: GDebi streamlines the installation of .deb packages and handles dependencies effectively, providing a user-friendly alternative to potential issues with the default Ubuntu Software application.

APT: A Command-Line Package Management Solution

APT provides a streamlined method for managing packages on Linux systems. It offers a simpler alternative to traditional tools like apt-get, enhancing the command-line experience.

Simplifying Package Installation

Previously, installing .deb files required navigating to the directory containing the file and executing separate commands using both dpkg and apt-get. However, Ubuntu 16.04 introduced a more efficient approach.

The apt command now allows for direct installation of .deb packages from any location. This eliminates the need for directory changes and multiple commands.

Installation Command Syntax

To install a .deb package, utilize the following command in your terminal:

sudo apt install application.deb

Replace "application.deb" with the actual filename of the package you wish to install.

Practical Example: Installing Google Chrome

Consider a scenario where you've downloaded the Google Chrome .deb package to your Downloads directory. The installation process is straightforward.

Execute the following command to install Google Chrome:

sudo apt install ~/Downloads/google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb

Understanding the "~/" Symbol

The tilde symbol ("~/") represents the current user's home directory. For instance, if your username is "michael", "~/Downloads" will resolve to "/home/michael/Downloads".

This shorthand notation simplifies commands and makes them more portable across different user accounts.

Addressing a Bug in Ubuntu 16.04

A significant issue was present in the initial release of Ubuntu 16.04, however, readily available workarounds offer effective solutions.

Canonical, the developer of Ubuntu, has created a fix for this problem, suggesting these temporary solutions may not be required indefinitely.

Understanding the Issue and Available Solutions

Despite the ongoing development of a permanent resolution, it remains beneficial to be prepared with these workarounds for potential future occurrences.

Having these solutions readily accessible can prove valuable should similar challenges emerge.

• Quick Resolution: The workarounds are relatively straightforward to implement.
• Temporary Nature: These are intended as interim fixes until the official patch is deployed.
• Future Preparedness: Knowing these steps can be helpful for addressing analogous issues.

The bug impacted users upon the initial launch of Ubuntu 16.04, but the community and Canonical responded swiftly.

The provided workarounds allow users to continue utilizing the operating system effectively while awaiting the official update.