Q&A for How to Install Software in Ubuntu

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How do you install .rpm files?

Community Answer

You need to install the following packages: alien dpkg-dev debhelper build-essential. Then, run sudo alien package.rpm (where package.rpm is the name of your file). This converts the file into a .deb package. You can now run sudo dpkg -i package.deb to install the debian file.

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How can I install programs downloaded from websites?

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If you've downloaded a file in .tar.gz format, you can install it using the Terminal. First, extract the file into a new folder. Once extracted, open Terminal and navigate to the new folder. Type "./configure" and press Enter. After that has finished, type "make" and press Enter. Finally, type "sudo make install" and enter your password when prompted. This will install the program.

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How do I install the software if I do not know the administrative password?

Community Answer

You can't install the software without an admin password.

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Question

When I use the command ./configure it says permission denied, what can I do?

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First check to make sure the configure script is executable. From the terminal, type chmod +x configure. If you are still not able to configure, try running the script as root. sudo ./configure

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Question

What do I do if my download fails when installing software in Ubuntu?

Community Answer

Try using a different repository or download it manually. Ensure that all of the dependencies of the requested program are installed before installing it. After that, go to the folder where the program is downloaded and run "dpkg -i name_of_program.deb" there.

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Question

Can I install software in Ubuntu that isn't already present in the Ubuntu software center?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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I cannot access Ubuntu software center, what should I do?

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Community Answer

If your Ubuntu Software system is not working, then you probably have a version of Ubuntu that is too old and is no longer supported. You will have to upgrade to a newer version of Ubuntu.

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Question

Why doesn't it work without Internet?

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Community Answer

An Internet connection is required in order to download the software in the first place. The programs are not stored on your computer.

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