How to Install and Uninstall Applications from Terminal in Ubuntu

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In-depth guide to application installation in Ubuntu

Written by Nicole Levine, MFA

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Tested

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• Install Software Using Terminal
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• Uninstall Software Using Terminal
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• Video
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• Q&A

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If you're new to Ubuntu and you're thinking about that how to install and uninstall software on your OS, then you should read this article. You can install and uninstall software on Ubuntu in two ways: Through command line (Terminal) or with Ubuntu Software Center.

In this article, you will see you how to install and uninstall software on Ubuntu using Terminal.

Steps

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1. 1
   To open the Terminal, press Ctrl+Alt+T on your keyboard or go to Applications > Accessories > Terminal.

   

   • For example, to install your desired software on Ubuntu, you're need to use command: sudo apt-get install ’application_name’ (Replace ’application name’ with the application you want to install)
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Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Install Software Using Terminal

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MPlayer

1. 
   1
   To install MPlayer, you need to type following command to the Terminal (press Ctrl+Alt+T on your keyboard) or use copy/paste method: sudo apt-get install mplayer (then hit Enter)
2. 
   2
   When it asks you for password, don't be confused. The password is that one, which you're using in the Login Screen. Password does not show up in the terminal when you type it. Just type your password and hit Enter. If your password was entered correctly, the action will continue.
3. 
   3
   When it asks you do you want to continue, type ’y’ (then hit Enter)
4. 
   4
   Wait for installation to be completed. After that, if you want to run MPlayer, you need to type following command to the Terminal: mplayer (then hit Enter)
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Uninstall Software Using Terminal

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1. 
   1
   To uninstall MPlayer, you need to type following command to the Terminal (press Ctrl+Alt+T on your keyboard) or use copy/paste method: sudo apt-get remove mplayer (then hit Enter)
2. 
   2
   When it asks you for password, don't be confused. The password is that one, which you're using in the Login Screen. Password does not show up in the terminal when you type it. Just type your password and hit Enter. If your password was entered correctly, the action will continue.
3. 
   3
   When it asks you do you want to continue, type ’y’ (then hit Enter)
4. 
   4
   Wait for uninstallation to be completed. After that, close your Terminal. That's all.
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Community Q&A

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• Question

  When installing a program using terminal do I have to be a superuser?

  

  Somone

  Community Answer

  Not always, but most programs need you to add 'sudo' prior to the command, essentially making you superuser.

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