How To Download Apps On Linux

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Linux, unlike Windows and MacOS, can seem complex and difficult to navigate, especially for those who are new to it. However, the process of downloading and installing applications on Linux is not that complicated, once you get the hang of it. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of installing apps on Linux.

Installing Apps from the Software Center

Most Linux distributions come with a built-in software center, similar to app stores in other operating systems. This should be the first place you look when you want to install new software. The exact name and look of the Software Center will depend on your Linux distribution. For example, on Ubuntu, it’s called “Ubuntu Software”.

To install an app from the software center:

  • Open the Software Center.
  • Search for the desired software.
  • Click on the software and select “Install”.
  • Enter your password if prompted.

Installing Apps via the Terminal

If you can’t find the software you want in the Software Center, or you prefer using terminal commands, you can use the package manager that comes with your Linux distribution. The most common ones are apt (Debian-based distributions like Ubuntu) and dnf (Fedora).

Here’s an example of how to install software using apt:

    sudo apt update
    sudo apt install <name-of-software>

And here’s how to do it using dnf:

    sudo dnf check-update
    sudo dnf install <name-of-software>

In both cases, replace with the actual name of the software package you want to install. You may need to enter your password after running these commands, as they require administrative privileges.

Installing Apps from .deb and .rpm Files

Sometimes, the software you want to install is not available in your distribution’s software repositories, but the developer provides a .deb (for Debian-based distributions) or .rpm (for Fedora and similar) file for download. In this case, you can download the file and install it manually.

Here’s how to install a .deb file:

    sudo dpkg -i <file-name.deb>

And here’s how to install a .rpm file:

    sudo rpm -i <file-name.rpm>

Again, replace or with the actual name of the file you downloaded.

Downloading and installing apps on Linux may seem complicated at first, but, with a bit of practice, you will find it is not much different than on Windows or MacOS. You just need to get used to the different tools and methods available. We hope this guide has helped you understand how to download apps on Linux.