One of the biggest questions new Linux users have is: "How do I install my apps?" The good news is that Linux makes software installation easy — and most of it is completely free. There are several ways to install software, from graphical app stores to terminal commands.
Method 1: The Software Center (Easiest)
Graphical Software Center
Every beginner-friendly Linux distro comes with a software center — it works just like the App Store on your phone or the Microsoft Store on Windows.
- Open the Software Manager (Linux Mint) or Ubuntu Software (Ubuntu) from your application menu
- Browse categories or search for an app by name
- Click the app you want
- Click Install
- Enter your password when prompted
That's it. The app will download, install, and appear in your application menu.
Method 2: The Terminal (Fastest)
APT Package Manager
If you're using Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or any Debian-based distro, the apt command is the fastest way to install software. It downloads apps from your distro's official repository — a curated library of tested, safe software.
$ sudo apt update
# Install an app (example: VLC media player)
$ sudo apt install vlc
# Install multiple apps at once
$ sudo apt install gimp audacity inkscape
# Remove an app
$ sudo apt remove vlc
# Search for an app
$ apt search video editor
Method 3: Flatpak
Flatpak (Universal Packages)
Flatpak is a universal package format that works on any Linux distro. Apps are sandboxed for security and always up to date. Linux Mint comes with Flatpak pre-installed. The main source for Flatpak apps is Flathub.
$ flatpak install flathub com.spotify.Client
# Run a Flatpak app
$ flatpak run com.spotify.Client
# Update all Flatpak apps
$ flatpak update
Method 4: Snap
Snap Packages
Snap is Ubuntu's universal package format. Similar to Flatpak, Snaps are self-contained and auto-update. Ubuntu comes with Snap pre-installed. The Snap Store is integrated into Ubuntu Software.
$ sudo snap install code --classic
# List installed Snaps
$ snap list
# Remove a Snap
$ sudo snap remove code
Method 5: AppImage
AppImage (Portable Apps)
AppImages are portable applications that don't need installation at all. Download the file, make it executable, and run it. It's like a portable .exe on Windows.
- Download the .AppImage file from the app's website
- Right-click the file, go to Properties, and check "Allow executing file as program"
- Double-click to run — no installation needed
Popular Apps and How to Get Them
Which method should you use? Start with the Software Center for convenience. Use apt for speed. Use Flatpak or Snap when the app isn't in your distro's repository or you want the latest version.
What About .deb Files?
Sometimes you'll download a .deb file from a website (like Google Chrome). This is Linux's equivalent of a .exe installer. Simply double-click the .deb file and your software center will handle the installation. You can also install it via terminal:
Keeping Everything Updated
Linux handles updates for all your apps in one place — no more updating each app individually. Run the Update Manager regularly or use the terminal: