Linux lets you install software in several efficient ways: via package managers, terminal commands, or graphical interfaces(see the generated image above). Unlike Windows, Linux uses repositories to host installable software packages, making the process secure and streamlined(see the generated image above). Both command-line tools and GUIs are available, catering to beginner and advanced users.
Below are some methods where we use both the packages as well as prompts and repositories in order to install a particular software in Linux.
Method 1: Install The Software In Linux Using Terminal
The APT tool is a built in tool available in the versions of the Linux operating systems, the APT tool can easily be used for installation as well removal of any particular software that we want. Find more apt commands in Linux with examples
Step 1: Update Package Index
In this example, we will install the synaptic which is a package installer that we will use in the installation of other software later in the method, for this we will have to first run the following command in order to update the package index:
sudo apt-get update
Step 2: Install the Package
In this step, we will have to enter the following commands and it will install the software (in this case, synaptic) for us, we can also rename the package name by any other package name, but make sure that the package name is accurate:
sudo apt-get install synaptic
You will see an input prompt, which will ask if you want to continue or not, for installing the software you will have to simply type "Y" and your software will begin downloading as well as installing.
Method 2: Install Software In Linux via Software Store
The Linux operating system offers the software store which can be easily used in order to install any software that can be installed in the Linux system. for this, this method is the easiest method as it requires very less amount of technical work, let's learn step by step how we can do this:
Step 1: Open Software Store
First, go to the desktop of your OS, then simply click on the "store" icon that is available at the left side, as you can see in the image below.
Step 2: Search for the Particular Software to Install
In this step, you click on the search option that is available to the left side of the Window, and enter the name of the software that you want to install, if the software is present in the store and it will show up after you search it, as seen below:
Step 3: Click on Install button.
Now simply click on the install button once you find the software that you want to install as you can see in the image below.
Once the file is downloaded and installed, you can easily open and run the software.
Method 3: Install Software Application In Linux via Synaptic
In the method 3 we learned how we can install any software using APT, now we will use the same software (Synaptic) to install packages.
Step 1: Follow Method 1 and Install Synaptic
Simply follow the method 1 and then move to step 2.
You can also check out this article How to Install and Configure Synaptic Package Manager in Ubuntu?
Step 2: Open Synaptic Software
Go to the start menu and open synaptic software searching for it, or by visiting System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager, it will look something like this.
Step 3: Search for Required Package
Click on the search button that is present in the top right corner, and then search for the particular file or software package that we want to install.
Step 4: Mark for Installation and Install
Now click on the mark for installation option after selecting your required package that you want to install, then simply click on the "apply" option as you can see in the image below.
Now the software will be installed automatically once the downloading of package is completed.
Installing software on Linux is a straightforward process once you understand the different methods available. Whether you're using a package manager, terminal commands, or a graphical interface, knowing how to install software in Linux will allow you to make the most of your system. By mastering these techniques, you can easily install applications in Linux and ensure your system has all the tools you need.