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How to Install and Run Software on Ubuntu Linux Distributions

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions available today. With its easy-to-use interface, strong community support, and compatibility with thousands of hardware devices, Ubuntu makes an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced Linux users.

This guide will walk you through the basics of installing and running software on Ubuntu.

Getting Started with Ubuntu

Before you can install software, you’ll need to have Ubuntu installed on your computer. The latest long-term support (LTS) release of Ubuntu Desktop can be downloaded here.

The Ubuntu installer will guide you through the process of installing Ubuntu alongside your existing operating system, like Windows, or as the only operating system on your computer. Be sure to back up any important data first!

Once Ubuntu is installed, you’ll be greeted by the desktop environment. This features a launcher bar on the left where you can search for and open applications.

Ways to Install Software on Ubuntu

There are several easy methods for installing new software on an Ubuntu system:

Ubuntu Software Center

The Ubuntu Software Center provides a graphical interface for finding, installing, and removing thousands of free and paid software applications.

To open it, click on the Ubuntu Software icon in the launcher bar or search for “Software” from the Activities search. You can browse categories or search for your desired application.

When you find an app you want, click the “Install” button. Ubuntu Software Center will handle downloading, installing, and adding the new app to your launcher automatically.

APT Package Manager

APT is the package management system that Ubuntu is built on top of. It allows you to install apps from the command line by typing:

sudo apt install <package-name>

Replacing <package-name> with the name of the app you want to install. For example, to install GIMP image editor you would use:

sudo apt install gimp

APT will resolve all dependencies and install the newest version of the app and its requirements automatically.

Snap Packages

Many applications are now distributed as Snap packages. These containerized software packages work across all major Linux distributions.

To install a Snap package, use:

sudo snap install <package-name>

Snaps auto-update so you always have the latest secure version of installed snaps.

Downloading DEB Packages

DEB files contain pre-compiled software for Debian-based distributions like Ubuntu. They can be installed by double clicking or using:

sudo dpkg -i <package.deb>

However, DEB files must resolve dependencies manually. Stick to the other methods if possible.

Running Applications on Ubuntu

Once an application is installed, here are some ways to open it:

  • Launcher Bar: Recently opened and pinned applications will appear here.
  • Activities Search: Start typing the name of your desired application.
  • Terminal: Type the name of the command line app and runtime parameters.

For example, to open LibreOffice Writer in the terminal, use:

libreoffice --writer

Keeping Software Updated

Ubuntu systems need to be updated regularly to receive the latest security patches, application updates, and new features.

Open the “Software Updater” utility to install any available updates. Critical security updates will be installed automatically in the background as well.

You can also update all installed packages from the command line using:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Snaps will auto-update themselves when new versions are released by the developers.

Uninstalling Software

To remove an application that you no longer need, use the Ubuntu Software Center to find and uninstall it. This will remove the app and all related configuration files.

Alternatively, you can uninstall apps with:

sudo apt remove <package-name>

For Snap packages, use:

sudo snap remove <package-name>

Tips for Installing Software

Here are some additional tips when installing apps on Ubuntu:

  • Stick to trusted sources like the Ubuntu Software Center whenever possible.
  • Pay attention to reviews and ratings to avoid low quality applications.
  • Prefer Snaps and Ubuntu Software Center to DEB packages when you have the choice.
  • Always uninstall unused applications to save disk space and reduce security exposure.
  • Keep all software updated by regularly running the Software Updater.

Conclusion

Installing and running new applications on Ubuntu is quick and easy. The Ubuntu Software Center, APT package manager, and Snap packages provide secure methods for finding, installing, and updating thousands of high-quality applications.

With strong community support and a wealth of documentation, troubleshooting software issues on Ubuntu is straightforward. Sticking to best practices like maintaining updates ensures your Ubuntu system remains stable, performant, and secure.

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