Mastering Package Management: Installing Applications on Ubuntu with Apt, Snap, and Flatpak
Forget the old "apt-get install" mantra—discover why savvy Ubuntu users are mixing Snap and Flatpak alongside Apt to optimize software installation and management for both desktop and server environments.
Ubuntu has long been celebrated for its ease of use and software availability, largely thanks to Apt, its traditional package manager. But as software ecosystem evolves, so do the ways we install and manage applications. Today’s Ubuntu users have more powerful tools at their disposal: Apt, Snap, and Flatpak.
Understanding how these package managers work—and when to use each—empowers you to harness the full potential of your system. Whether you want stability, cutting-edge features, or sandboxed apps with secure dependencies, mastering these tools is key.
Why Learn Multiple Package Managers?
- Apt: The default package manager; installs software from Ubuntu’s official repositories.
- Snap: Canonical’s containerized app format; simplifies distribution and updates.
- Flatpak: A distribution-agnostic package system focused on desktop sandboxing.
Each offers benefits:
| Package Manager | Pros | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Apt | Stable, tried-and-tested system | Essentials, servers |
| Snap | Sandboxed, auto-updates, easy | Latest apps, desktop |
| Flatpak | Cross-distro compatibility | Desktop with sandboxing |
Getting Started with Apt
Apt is what most newcomers use first — a robust way of installing software available in Ubuntu’s repositories.
Update Your Package List
Before installing anything:
sudo apt update
This fetches the latest list of available packages.
Installing a Program
To install VLC media player via apt:
sudo apt install vlc
This will pull VLC along with all required dependencies from official repos.
Removing a Program
To remove VLC:
sudo apt remove vlc
Searching for Packages
To find packages related to “chrome”:
apt search chrome
Exploring Snap — Modern & Containerized Apps
Snap packages bundle their own dependencies and auto-update in the background. They run in isolated sandboxes ensuring security without messing up system libraries.
Installing Snapd
Ubuntu 18.04+ comes pre-installed with snapd. If needed:
sudo apt install snapd
Searching for Snaps
snap find spotify
Installing an Application via Snap
Install Spotify:
sudo snap install spotify
It will fetch the latest stable Spotify packaged as a snap.
Managing Snaps
List installed snaps:
snap list
Remove a snap:
sudo snap remove spotify
Key Benefits of Snaps on Ubuntu
- Updates are automatic.
- Apps are sandboxed (isolated).
- Available universally across many Linux distributions.
- Supports classic confinement if app needs access outside sandbox.
Using Flatpak — Cross-Distro Sandboxed Apps
Flatpak is another containerized app tool popular for desktop apps with an emphasis on security and runtime isolation across distributions.
Installing Flatpak on Ubuntu
First, install flatpak support:
sudo apt install flatpak
Add Flathub repo (the most popular source):
sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
Restart your session or reboot after this step for full integration.
Searching with Flatpak
Search for GIMP:
flatpak search gimp
Installing Applications via Flatpak
Install GIMP photo editor:
flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMP
Launch it from terminal or your applications menu by running gimp.
Running and Managing Flatpaks
List installed apps:
flatpak list
Update all installed flatpaks:
flatpak update
Remove GIMP:
flatpak uninstall org.gimp.GIMP
When to Use What?
| Scenario | Recommended Package System |
|---|---|
| Need server stability & low overhead | Apt |
| Want the latest GUI apps with auto-updates | Snap |
| Prefer cross-distro sandboxed desktop apps | Flatpak |
| Desire quick installation via OS repository | Apt |
For example: On a headless Ubuntu server stuck behind strict firewall rules, sticking to Apt is often easiest. On a daily-use laptop where you want bleeding edge Firefox or Spotify updates without delay? Snap or Flatpak shine here.
Conclusion: Mix & Match Like a Pro!
Knowing just apt isn’t enough anymore—Ubuntu users today benefit hugely from adding Snap and Flatpak into their toolkit.
Mastering all three allows you to tailor software installs based on needs like stability, security boundaries, or user experience enhancements. Next time you want a new app or utility on Ubuntu, think beyond the terminal classic apt-get install—explore Snap and Flatpak too!
Keep experimenting; you’ll quickly find your preferred combination that unlocks convenience without compromising power.
Happy package managing! 🎉