How to Download Linux Applications

Linux-based graphical and command line tools are intuitive when downloading new software.

Although the more advanced Linux users may prefer to build their programs from source code, the common user will find it easier to download new software with built-in package management tools. Most Linux distributions come with an intuitive package manager that locates new software and tracks down any dependencies, meaning you can download and install new software with a menu command. Most distros have access to a library--or repository--containing thousands of programs, and all of it is free to download.

Things You'll Need

• Root access

Instructions

Using the Shell

1. Open a command shell.

2. Get into a root shell by typing "su -" without the quotes in a command terminal. Press "Enter." Type your root password when prompted and press "Enter" again.

3. Type "apt-get install program" without the quotes and substituting the name of the application you wish to download. If you are using a system other than Debian or Ubuntu, type in the name of your package manager instead of "apt-get."

4. Follow the prompts in your command shell; most will be yes-no questions to confirm your download and install.

5. Wait for the download to finish. Most package managers will also fetch any other software needed by your new program.

6. Type "exit" when the program is downloaded and installed. This will take you out of your root terminal and into your user shell.

7. Type the executable name of the new program in the command shell, and watch for any error messages as the program executes.

Using a Graphical Package Manager

1. Type the name of your package manager in a root shell, and press "Enter." With Debian and Ubuntu systems, Synaptic is the default package manager.

2. Select the "search" icon to find a package by its name.

3. Type the name of the program you want, select "Description and Name" under "Look in," and click "Search."

4. Click on the check box next to the name of the program you want to install, and select "Mark For Installation" from the context menu.

5. Click the "Apply" icon.

6. Wait for Synaptic to download and install the program and all dependencies.

7. Open a command shell, type the name of the program and press "Enter" to run it.

Tips & Warnings

• Run a new program for the first time from a command shell to make sure everything is installed properly.

• You can also download the binary or source code via a browser from a software website, but this will not fetch any program dependencies.

• Update your Debian or Ubuntu software repositories for new titles by typing "apt-get update" in a root shell.

• If you're using a distribution that is not Debian or Ubuntu, type "apropos package" in a command shell to find your package management software.

• While your distribution's software repositories are relatively safe, be careful what you download.

• Use caution when typing in the root shell; you can damage your system.

References

• Linux Planet: Linux Package Manager Cheatsheet
• Debian: Debian Package Management
• Simple Help: How to Download Files From the Linux Command Line