# I'm having trouble installing applications on Ubuntu. What are the best practices for a beginner?

I'm having trouble installing applications on Ubuntu. What are the best practices for a beginner?

##### Post Metadata
- Posted at: almost 2 years ago
- Author title: Pinned by G2 as a common question
- Net upvotes: 1


## Comments
### Comment 1

Start with Ubuntu Software for easy and safe app installation without using the terminal.

Learn basic terminal commands like sudo apt update and sudo apt install app-name.

Prefer apt packages over random .deb files from the internet.

Use Snap or Flatpak only when the app isn’t available via apt or needs the latest version.

Always read error messages carefully and make sure the app supports your Ubuntu version.

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: 7 months ago
- Author title: Software Dev , Ai Agents Builder
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 2

Best practices for installing apps on Ubuntu (beginner‑friendly)

1. Use the official Ubuntu Software Center first

This is the safest and easiest method.
Think of it like the “App Store” for Ubuntu — click, install, done.

2. Prefer `.deb` files from trusted sources

If you download apps from a website, make sure they offer a .deb file.
These install just like a Windows .exe, but for Ubuntu.

3. Use the terminal only when needed

Commands like sudo apt install something are powerful, but also easy to mess up if you’re new.
Stick to official instructions when using terminal commands.

4. Avoid random commands from forums

If someone online says “just run this command,” be cautious.
Ubuntu gives you full control — which also means full responsibility.

5. Keep your system updated

Before installing anything, it’s good practice to run:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: 7 months ago
- Author title: Enterprise Architect | Cloud Transformation Leader | Driving Multi-Cloud Strategy, Solutions | DevSecOps Excellence | Innovating Resilient Infrastructure at Scale
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 3

Usually Ubuntu already have some app stores included like the oficial Snap Store or Synaptic App manager, it will allow you to search for software based on categories or app's types through an easy-to-use GUI.
Once you get familiar with the operative system can switch, as many of the linux users, to the Terminal and follow the instructions per manufacturer that usually uses apt or apt-get commands

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: 10 months ago
- Author title: C# | Embedded systems consultant
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 4

The best of the best use copilot or chatgpt.. for every steps.. but use this promp
Act as a patient Linux tutor. I’ll paste my Bash context and a task.

Explain every command in simple terms.

Provide step‑by‑step instructions, one step at a time.

After each step, show: the exact command, what it does, expected output, and how to verify success.

Warn me before any risky action (writes, deletes, permission changes) and offer a safer alternative.

If my context is missing info, ask up to 3 targeted questions.

Support Debian/Ubuntu by default unless I specify otherwise. Here is my context and task:

Context: [Paste: OS, shell, package manager, current directory, key env vars, recent errors, outputs]

Task: [Describe what you want to achieve]

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: 11 months ago
- Author title: Faith Ain't Got No Borders/👨‍🔬 Data Analyst / 🤖 AI / 💹Marketing Analyst / 🧑‍💻 Business Inteligent / 🏫 Education / 🙎‍♂️Project Management
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 5

1. Use the Ubuntu Software Center
Graphical Interface: The Ubuntu Software Center is the easiest way to install applications. It provides a user-friendly interface where you can search for, install, and manage software.
Search and Install: Open the Software Center from your applications menu, search for the app you need, and click the install button.
2. Use apt Commands
sudo apt update
Install Applications: Use the following command to install software:
sudo apt install [application-name]
Upgrade Packages: To keep all installed software up-to-date:

sudo apt upgrade

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: almost 2 years ago
- Author title: Java Developer |SpringBoot | Kafka | Microservices| CI-CD | Kotlin |MuleSoft|  | Azure | GCP | Oracle |
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 6

use terminal, and run : sudo apt-get install APPLICATION_NAME

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: almost 2 years ago
- Author title: Opentext Documentum Seconded to Pertamina Hulu Rokan
- Net upvotes: 1


### Comment 7

Please let me know the error, I can help you in installing application on Ubuntu.

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: almost 2 years ago
- Author title: Sr. Software Engineer
- Net upvotes: 1



## Related Product
[Ubuntu](https://www.g2.com/products/ubuntu/reviews)

## Related Category
[Operating System](https://www.g2.com/categories/operating-system)

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