Coding – Step 14.4 – Ubuntu – Installing and Updating Software with APT and Snap

Disclaimer: This guide is intended for beginners and educational purposes only. Always check software and hardware compatibility before installing.

Module Goal

In this step, you’ll learn how to install and update software on Ubuntu using APT and Snap, the two main package systems. But we won’t stop at commands — we’ll also explore real-world challenges, like missing commercial software, printer driver issues, and how Ubuntu differs from Windows without bias or hype.

APT: The Classic Package Manager

APT (Advanced Package Tool) is the traditional software manager for Ubuntu and other Debian-based systems. It works through official repositories containing thousands of tested and secure packages.

Basic Commands

bash

sudo apt update          # Refresh package list
sudo apt upgrade         # Upgrade installed packages
sudo apt install name    # Install a package
sudo apt remove name     # Remove a package

Practical Example

Want to install GIMP (image editor)? Just type:

bash

sudo apt install gimp

Snap: The Modern System

Snap is a universal package format created by Canonical. Each Snap includes all its dependencies, so it works across different Ubuntu versions.

Basic Commands

bash

sudo snap install name           # Install a Snap package
sudo snap list                   # List installed Snap packages
sudo snap refresh name           # Update a Snap package
sudo snap remove name            # Remove a Snap package

Practical Example

To install Visual Studio Code:

bash

sudo snap install code --classic

APT vs Snap: Pros and Cons

Real-World Challenges

Missing Software

Many commercial programs (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Office, AutoCAD) don’t exist for Linux. You won’t find them via APT or Snap.

Possible solutions:

• Use open-source alternatives (e.g., GIMP, LibreOffice, FreeCAD).
• Use Wine to emulate Windows software (works, but not always well).
• Use virtual machines or dual boot to keep Windows available.

Printer and Peripheral Issues

Ubuntu handles many modern printers well, but older models or niche brands can be tricky.

What to do:

• Check if the manufacturer offers Linux drivers.
• Search your model on OpenPrinting.org.
• Try sudo apt install printer-driver-xyz if available.
• As a last resort, use CUPS (Common Unix Printing System) and configure manually.

Software Outside Repositories

Some programs aren’t available via APT or Snap. In these cases:

Solutions:

• Download .deb files from official websites and install with:bashsudo dpkg -i filename.deb sudo apt --fix-broken install
• Use Flatpak (another package system, requires setup).
• Compile from source (advanced, not beginner-friendly).

Realism Over Fanboyism

Ubuntu isn’t “better” or “worse” than Windows. They’re different ecosystems:

• Windows is ideal for commercial software, gaming, and enterprise tools.
• Ubuntu excels in development, security, and customization.

The real advantage? You can use both: dual boot, virtual machines, or separate devices.

Guided Test

1. Open the terminal.
2. Install VLC with APT:bashsudo apt install vlc
3. Install Spotify with Snap:bashsudo snap install spotify
4. Check if your printer is detected:bashsystem-config-printer

Summary

Installing software on Ubuntu is simple… when the software is available. But it also requires practical awareness: knowing where to look, how to work around limitations, and when to use Windows. That’s the real “WoW” — becoming the master of your system with confidence and clarity.

Next Module

In the next step, we’ll explore how to customize the desktop environment: themes, icons, layout, and tricks to make Ubuntu truly yours.