How to Install a .deb File on Linux: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re new to Linux or switching from another operating system, you might have encountered software packaged as .deb files—Debian package files used by Debian-based distributions like Ubuntu, Mint, and others. Unlike apps you download from an app store, .deb files need a bit of command-line magic or graphical help to install. This post walks you through exactly how to install .deb files easily and safely.
Why Install Software Using .deb Files?
Most software for Debian-based distros is available from official repositories, which you can install using package managers like apt or apt-get. However, sometimes an application might only be available as a .deb package from the developer’s site, or you want a specific version that the repository doesn’t have.
Learning how to install .deb files expands your flexibility to try out apps without waiting for repo updates.
What You’ll Need
- A computer running a Debian-based Linux distribution (Ubuntu, Mint, Pop!_OS)
- Terminal access or the GUI file manager
- The
.debpackage file you want to install
Method 1: Installing .deb Files via Terminal using dpkg
This is the most straightforward way if you’re comfortable with the command line.
Step 1: Download the .deb file
Let’s say you downloaded Google Chrome’s installer from their website:
~/Downloads/google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
Step 2: Open your terminal and navigate to the download folder
cd ~/Downloads
Step 3: Use dpkg to install the package
sudo dpkg -i google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
Here’s what’s happening:
sudo: Runs the command as superuser (required for system-level changes)dpkg -i: The-iflag tells dpkg to install the package
Step 4: Fix any missing dependencies (very common)
Sometimes installing directly with dpkg can cause dependency issues because it doesn’t automatically handle dependencies.
Run:
sudo apt-get install -f
This command tells apt to fix broken installs by downloading missing dependencies.
Done!
You can now launch Google Chrome either from your app menu or by running:
google-chrome
Method 2: Installing .deb Files Using apt (Recommended)
Starting with Ubuntu 16.04+, apt also supports installing local .deb files directly while managing dependencies automatically.
Run:
sudo apt install ./google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb
Note:
- Use a relative path (
./filename.deb) or absolute path. - Apt will automatically resolve and install needed dependencies.
Method 3: Installing via GUI – Using Software Installers
If terminal is not your thing, most desktop environments allow installing .deb files graphically:
- Right-click your downloaded
.debfile. - Choose Open With > Software Install, GDebi Package Installer, or similar.
- Click Install and provide your password when prompted.
- Wait for installation to complete.
- Launch your application from the menu.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dependency errors?
If after installing with dpkg, software fails due to missing dependencies — always run:
sudo apt-get install -f
to fix broken dependencies and complete installation.
File not found?
Make sure you are in the folder where your .deb file is located or specify the full path when using commands.
Version conflicts?
Sometimes newer packages conflict with existing versions; remove old versions first:
sudo apt-get remove <package-name>
and then reinstall.
Summary Cheat Sheet
| Task | Command Example |
|---|---|
| Install using dpkg | sudo dpkg -i filename.deb |
| Fix broken dependencies | sudo apt-get install -f |
| Install with apt | sudo apt install ./filename.deb |
| Remove package | sudo apt remove packagename |
Final Thoughts
Installing .deb files on Linux isn't complicated once you get familiar with either terminal commands or your desktop environment’s tools. While official repositories are safest and easiest, downloading trusted .deb packages lets you enjoy many applications that aren’t yet in repos—or new versions faster. Just be careful where you download your packages from, and always check package authenticity when possible!
Got any other Linux installation questions? Drop them in comments—I’m happy to help!
Happy Installing!
— Your friendly Linux guide
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