Linux Mint is the most popular open-source distribution for desktop users. It is beginner-friendly but also used by experienced users because it is based on Ubuntu and is also available with Debian. Its interface is like Windows, making it easy for users to adopt and handle. One of the most powerful features of Linux Mint is its terminal, which allows you to install applications quickly and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll walk you through installing apps in Linux Mint using the terminal.
Why Use the Terminal to Install Apps in Linux Mint?
We can use the graphical user-interfaced software store of Linux Mint to install the various applications available through the default repository of Linux Mint. However, using the terminal to install the apps on Linux Mint is easier and more straightforward, especially if we need to install unavailable packages through the default system repos. There are several advantages of using Terminal; here are a few:
- Installing apps via the terminal can be faster, especially if you are comfortable with command-line operations.
- Greater control over the installation process, including the ability to install specific versions or dependencies.
- Using the terminal helps you learn more about Linux.
Prerequisites: You should have the following to work with this tutorial:
- A working installation of Linux Mint.
- Terminal access (Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal).
- An active internet connection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install Apps in Linux Mint Using the Terminal
Step 1: Update the Linux Mint Package List
Before installing any new software, updating your package list is a good idea. It ensures you’re installing the latest available versions of applications using the system repositories and also makes compatibility issues less likely to arise.
sudo apt update
Step 2: Install the Application Using apt
As Linux Mint is Ubuntu-based, the default system package manager is APT (Advanced Package Tool). It’s used to install, update, and remove software packages. To install an application using it, you can use the following command:
sudo apt install [package-name]For example, if you want to install the popular video player – vlc, you would run the APT syntax discussed above in the following way: The command will display information about the package, including its size and any additional dependencies. You’ll be asked to confirm the installation by typing Y and pressing Enter.
sudo apt install vlcIf you don’t know the exact package name that you want to install and its availability in the Linux Mint package repository, then we can search that using the given syntax:
sudo apt search pacakge-nameThis will give you a list of packages similar to the one you are searching for; if you get what you are looking for, use the exact name given in the search result to install it on Linux Mint using the APT.
Step 3: Confirm Installed Apps on Linux Mint
Once the installation is completed, you can verify that the application has been installed correctly. For that, we can type the application’s name into the terminal. For example, to check if vlc was installed, type:
Note: There are many applications that are only available to use on the command line, whereas others can be run directly from the Linux Mint Application menu.
vlcStep 4: Remove or Uninstall an Application
If you no longer need an application, you can remove it using the following command:
sudo apt remove [package-name]For example, to remove Vim, you would type:
sudo apt remove vimIf you want to remove the application completely, including configuration files, use:
sudo apt purge [package-name]Other Useful Commands for Managing Apps in Linux Mint
List installed packages: To see a list of all installed applications, run:
dpkg --get-selectionsSearch for a package: If you’re not sure about the exact name of an application, you can search for it using the apt search command, which we already discussed earlier.
apt search [application-name]For example:
apt search firefoxUpgrade installed packages: To keep your system up-to-date, run the following command. This will upgrade all the installed applications to their latest versions.
sudo apt upgrade Conclusion
Installing apps in Linux Mint using the terminal is not quick, but it is also simple, of course, if you are familiar with the command line. On Linux systems, the terminal is the fastest way to install, update, and remove applications. After following our guide, you will be able to become more comfortable with the terminal and gain greater control over your Linux Mint system.
