How to install application on Ubuntu

Achanandhi M
2 min read7 hours ago

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Ubuntu, one of the most popular Linux distributions, offers a variety of methods to install applications. Whether you’re a newcomer to Linux or a seasoned user, this guide will walk you through the most common methods to get software up and running on your Ubuntu system. Let’s dive in!

1. Installing Applications via the Ubuntu Software Center

The Ubuntu Software Center is a user-friendly graphical interface for installing and managing applications. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open Ubuntu Software Center: You can find it in your applications menu or by searching for “Software” in the Activities overview.
  2. Browse or Search for Applications: Use the search bar or browse through categories to find the application you want.

3. Install the Application: Click on the application, then click the “Install” button. You may be prompted to enter your password to authorize the installation.

4. Launch the Application: Once installed, you can find it in your applications menu.

Example: To install GIMP, a popular image editing tool:

  • Search for “GIMP” in the Ubuntu Software Center.
  • Click “Install” and follow the prompts.

2. Installing Applications via APT (Advanced Package Tool)

APT is a command-line tool used for managing software packages on Debian-based systems like Ubuntu. To install software using APT:

  1. Open Terminal: You can open it from the applications menu or by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
  2. Update Package Lists: Run the following command to ensure you have the latest package lists:
sudo apt update

3. Install the Application: Use the apt install command followed by the package name. For example, to install VLC media player:

sudo apt install vlc

Launch the Application: You can launch VLC from the applications menu or by typing vlc in the terminal.

Installing Applications via Flatpak

Flatpak is another package management system that provides a way to install and manage software. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Install Flatpak (if not already installed):
sudo apt update
sudo apt install flatpak

3. Add the Flathub Repository (where many Flatpak apps are available):

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

4. Install the Application: Use the flatpak install command. For example, to install GIMP:

flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMP

5. Launch the Application: You can find it in your applications menu or launch it using flatpak run.

Example: To install LibreOffice:

flatpak install flathub org.libreoffice.LibreOffice

Installing applications on Ubuntu can be straightforward and versatile with the various methods available. Whether you prefer graphical tools like the Ubuntu Software Center or command-line tools like APT, Snap, or Flatpak, Ubuntu makes it easy to get the software you need. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to install and manage your applications with ease. Happy computing!

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Achanandhi M

CNCF Enthusiast 🙋🏻 | Cloud Native Build packs| Cloud | DevOps♾️ | Docker🐬 | 🏗️Microservice| Python🐍 | Go | K8s☸️| Linux🐧