While "apt-get" and "aptitude" are fast ways of installing programs/packages, you can also use the Synaptic Package Manager (System -> Administration -> Synaptic Manager), a GUI method for installing programs/packages. Most (but not all) programs/packages available with apt-get install will also be available from the Synaptic Package Manager. This is the preferred method for most desktop users. In this guide, when you see
sudo apt-get install package
you can simply search for package in Synaptic and install it that way.
- System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager
- Search for the name of the program/package. You can also search for a word in its description.
- Check the box "Mark for Installation"
- Click the "Apply" button.
- The selected program(s) will be automatically installed, along with its dependencies.
Add/Remove Programs
Not all packages available from apt-get, aptitude, and Synaptic Package Manager are available in Add/Remove Programs. However, it is the easiest interface for new users of Ubuntu and directs them to preferred packages.
- Applications -> Add/Remove Programs
- Search for the sort of program you want to add. Example: type MP3 to see a list of mp3 software.
- Check the box "Mark for Installation"
- Click the "Apply" button.
- The selected program(s) will be automatically installed.
Manual Updates
- Read General Notes
- Read Add Extra Ubuntu Repositories
- Manually, from Terminal (command line interface):
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade
- or
- Use Synaptic Package Manager:
- System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager -> "Reload" then "Mark all upgrades"
- If there are packages available for updating, you will be prompted whether to install them.
Automated Updates
- Use Synaptic Package Manager:
- System -> Administration -> Synaptic Manager -> Settings -> Preferences -> General -> Reloading Outdated Package Information -> Automatic
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