The Ubuntu operating system has several ways to install packages and programs. If you are interested in doing this process from the Ubuntu terminal, we recommend reading this article with which you will learn How to install packages or programs in Ubuntu from the terminal?
What is APT?
APT stands for “Advanced Packaging Tool” and refers to a set of tools for package management. APT is included in the GNU/Linux distribution database and facilitates processes such as updating, installing and removing programs and packages.
What is APT for?
APT is used to manage and search for packages, as well as request information about them to proceed with the installation and update when necessary.
APT has command lines that allow you to configure the interface, manage key authentication, and even use external media as a means of installing packages.
How to install packages or programs in Ubuntu from the terminal?
Generally, almost all GNU/Linux distributions provide their applications from repositories. Even some actions such as configuring two or more monitors in Linux from the terminal also require repositories, since they have a catalog that is managed by developers and can be used by users.
Next, we present all the information you need to know about the process of installing packages and programs in Ubuntu using the terminal. Therefore, when you finish reading this article you will be able to do this task without any difficulty.
Access the Ubuntu terminal
To install programs on Ubuntu Linux downloaded from the internet easily, you can use the software center or terminal. The Ubuntu terminal is nothing more than a system that allows you to control the operating system through commands. In this sense, with the terminal you will be able to install local or online packages and programs through the use of the Internet.
To access the Ubuntu terminal, just press the “Ctrl + Alt + T” keys. This is the fastest and easiest shortcut with which you can launch the platform.
Update packages in Ubuntu from terminal
Once you access the Ubuntu terminal, it is essential that you update the packages. In this way, you will be able to refresh the list of components in the repositories and install the packages that contain new versions.
To perform the update of the packages for the APT-based Ubuntu system, you need to type the following command line: $ sudo apt update. Then, press the “Enter” key to execute the statement in the terminal.
Apply package updates
After updating the list of packages, you should apply updates to available packages in order to preserve old packages and update only those that require it.
To apply package updates type in the Ubuntu terminal: $ sudo apt upgrade and then press the “Enter” key.
Install the package or program in Ubuntu from the terminal
If you want to install packages or programs, it is necessary to use a command which is responsible for indicating the main package and APT searches for dependencies. To achieve this, type the following syntax: $ sudo apt install package_name where “package_name” is the actual name of the parent package you want to install.
APT will perform a search for all the necessary dependencies and ask for a confirmation to install the packages on the system. You can install multiple packages at the same time by separating each of their names with a blank space.
What should I do if I don’t know the real name of the package?
If you know the actual name of the package you want to install, you can use this syntax: $ sudo apt list –parameter. The “parameter” should be replaced with –upgradable so that you can see the list of packages that can be upgraded.
You can also locate a specific package with the command: $ sudo apt search package_name. The system will show you a list of results associated with your search term.
Get more information before installing packages or programs in Ubuntu from the terminal
If you want to know more information about a certain package, use the command: $ apt show package_name. With it you will obtain relevant information about the dependency of this package with the others, as well as those that could generate conflicts after its installation. Finally, don’t forget to optimize and clean your Linux system with Stacer and Bleachbit. Thus, you will notice that your team will have a better performance.