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Software Installation Woes on Linux
brajeshwar.com — Installing software on Linux is not only easier than most of us think, but it also has some special features which help software’s to be updated automatically!
mpind176- 124 diggs
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- pervezalammzn, on 06/16/2008, -1/+2gud :)
- 3242130193, on 06/16/2008, -0/+7They just barely mention it at the end that it's preferable (when possible) to use a package manager over package installer because the manager keeps it up to date. Not only that, but it's also the best way to manage dependencies too. Ever tried to unpack a file and learn that there's 5 other dependencies that it needs? Use a package manager and problem solved with no extra effort.
- tj111, on 06/16/2008, -0/+3Seems a little over-technical for an article targeted at newer linux users or users considering linux. Also could expand a little more on pros and cons (as mentioned above) of each method. But overall a good article.
- praval, on 06/17/2008, -0/+1HI, I've tried to put down the article to the lowest level. For that reason, I haven't included the compilation from source in this article. I've mentioned the advantages of using repository based installations over the ready made deb packages. That's how you take pros and cons I guess. Incase you need more help, reach me at www.Praval.com
- armo, on 06/17/2008, -0/+1I think part of the problem is you talk about installation from packages before installation from the repositories which makes it look like the preferred method. Whereas, the preferred method is to check the repositories and if you can't find it, or if you can't find a suitable third-party repository, only then to go with the package.
- praval, on 06/28/2008, -0/+0If you carefully read the entire post before posting your opinion, it clearly states the pros and cons of installing from packages. I have recommended installing from repositories anyhow!
- praval, on 06/17/2008, -0/+1HI, I've tried to put down the article to the lowest level. For that reason, I haven't included the compilation from source in this article. I've mentioned the advantages of using repository based installations over the ready made deb packages. That's how you take pros and cons I guess. Incase you need more help, reach me at www.Praval.com
- sloppychris, on 06/17/2008, -0/+2Why even mention compiling from source in an article like this? I've been on linux a year and a half and never once needed to do so. It's unnecessary and not something new users need to worry about during the transition. To me, even bringing up that concept is a disservice to those helping users make the switch. It can scare people away and enforce the inaccurate stereotype that linux is only for the technically advanced user.
The writer didn't even mention the 'add / remove programs' dialog in Ubuntu. An article like this should spend 80% of the story explaining that interface. Then 10% talking about synaptic, and 10% on .rpm / .deb packages.- sirhomer, on 06/17/2008, -0/+3Any article which talks about software installation should at least mention compilation from source. Outside of the repositories it's one of the most common way to install software. Yes you don't have to do it. But sometimes if you really want something that isn't in a repo or packaged for you, you'll probably have to download a tarball. And you might have to actually compile it. And it really, really, isn't difficult. =)
- r3negadeX, on 08/11/2008, -0/+1/.configure
make
make install
People these days... - Brajeshwar, on 06/17/2008, -0/+1@sirhomer
Well, I guess the article says "Compile from Source" is coming up in "an upcoming article". I bet my author/friend is already working on it.
- r3negadeX, on 08/11/2008, -0/+1/.configure
- sirhomer, on 06/17/2008, -0/+3Any article which talks about software installation should at least mention compilation from source. Outside of the repositories it's one of the most common way to install software. Yes you don't have to do it. But sometimes if you really want something that isn't in a repo or packaged for you, you'll probably have to download a tarball. And you might have to actually compile it. And it really, really, isn't difficult. =)
- sharjeelsayed, on 06/17/2008, -0/+2whats new?
- praval, on 06/17/2008, -0/+1Hi All! The writer is finally here. I agree to comments which state that linux is not only for tech masters or geeks. I never wish it would be. Gone are those unix shell days. But it's not like someone who used a linux distro for an year and a half without the terminal based installation did something great. What is the problem in learning something that's not as difficult as the hype it has around itself? I know I've deliberately missed out the add-remove thing. It is not one of the best ways to find any wierd software on a distro. Being a new-bie, it's always advised to start with better ways as later on, it becomes difficult and looks pretty annoying to change. So, why not learn the right ways including the source compilation. Keep an eye on the website brajeshwar.com for my next article on source installation! CIao!
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