Installing Linux software from source

You should always try and install software through your distributions package manager but there will be times that you want a particular package that is not included.  This is when you will need to install it from source.  This tutorial will show you how.

Ok download the source code for the package you want.  Open up a terminal and switch to the directory where you saved the source code.  For example, I usually save to my desktop so I would type:

cd /home/chris/Desktop

Next just check that your downloaded source code is there by typing:

ls

Assuming that you can see the file you are after we will now need to extract the contents.  Type one of the following depending on whether your file ends in tar.gz or tar.bz2.

tar -xvzf./filename.tar.gz or tar -xvjf./filename.tar.bz2

Now we change to the directory we just extracted the files to by typing:

cd (package name)

At this  point I would recommend taking a look at the ReadMe file.  It will contain any specific install instructions.  You can find it by typing:

ls

If there are no specific instructions you now configure the files by typing:

./configure

Next we build the package by typing:

make

And finally we install it:

make install

About the Author

Hi I am Chris the owner of ComTech. I provide IT Support, Laptop repairs and Computer repairs to both personal and business clients in and around Stirling. For a list of what I can offer you why not visit my website www.comtech247.net where you will find my blog, testimonials, services and much more.  Start supporting a local business today so I can start supporting you.

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