Synaptic Package Manager: a GUI method for installing programs/packages

While “apt-get” and “aptitude” are fast ways of installing programs/packages, you can also use the Synaptic Package Manager (System -> Administration -> Synaptic Manager), a GUI method for installing programs/packages. Most (but not all) programs/packages available with apt-get install will also be available from the Synaptic Package Manager. This is the preferred method for most desktop users. In this guide, when you see

sudo apt-get install package

you can simply search for package in Synaptic and install it that way.

• System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager
• Search for the name of the program/package. You can also search for a word in its description.
• Check the box “Mark for Installation”
• Click the “Apply” button.
• The selected program(s) will be automatically installed, along with its dependencies.

Add/Remove Programs

Not all packages available from apt-get, aptitude, and Synaptic Package Manager are available in Add/Remove Programs. However, it is the easiest interface for new users of Ubuntu and directs them to preferred packages.

• Applications -> Add/Remove Programs
• Search for the sort of program you want to add. Example: type MP3 to see a list of mp3 software.
• Check the box “Mark for Installation”
• Click the “Apply” button.
• The selected program(s) will be automatically installed.

Manual Updates

• Read General Notes
• Read Add Extra Ubuntu Repositories

• Manually, from Terminal (command line interface):

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get upgrade

or

• Use Synaptic Package Manager:

System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager -> “Reload” then “Mark all upgrades”

If there are packages available for updating, you will be prompted whether to install them.

Automated Updates

• Use Synaptic Package Manager:

• System -> Administration -> Synaptic Manager -> Settings -> Preferences -> General -> Reloading Outdated Package Information -> Automatic