Ubuntu 24.04: How to Install a Command (or Package)

Published On - May 5, 2025

Emily Harris

So you’ve just installed Ubuntu 24.04 and you’re all set to dive in. But wait — you need a tool or app, and it’s not there? No worries! Installing a command or package in Ubuntu is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down into simple steps, with a sprinkle of fun along the way.

What’s a “Package” Anyway?

Think of a package like a magical box. Inside, there’s an app or a command you need, and Ubuntu knows how to open that box and set everything up. Neat, right?

1. Open the Terminal

First things first — you’ll need to open your terminal. You can do this by pressing:

  • Ctrl + Alt + T

This black box is where all the Linux magic happens.

2. Update Package Info

Before you install anything, let’s make sure Ubuntu knows about the latest packages.

sudo apt update

This command fetches fresh info about what’s available. It won’t install anything yet. It’s like reading the menu before ordering lunch.

3. Installing a Package

Now comes the fun part. Let’s say you want to install the curl tool, which helps you transfer data from servers. You just type:

sudo apt install curl

Hit Enter, type your password (Ubuntu won’t show anything when you type it — that’s normal), and let the install begin.

4. That’s It?

Yep! When it’s done, just type curl to see if it’s working:

curl --version

If you see version info, congrats — you just installed your first package!

5. Installing Multiple Packages

Want to install more than one thing at once? Easy! Just list them out:

sudo apt install git vim htop

Now you’re multitasking like a pro.

6. What If You Don’t Know the Exact Name?

Not sure what the package is called? You can search for it with:

apt search name-of-app

For example:

apt search photo editor

7. Bonus Round: Snap Packages

Ubuntu 24.04 also supports Snap. These are newer, more self-contained packages. To install a snap, type:

sudo snap install package-name

Like this little favorite:

sudo snap install vlc

Now you’ve got a shiny new media player!

8. Removing a Package

Whoops! Installed the wrong thing? You can remove it easily:

sudo apt remove curl

Or for a Snap package:

sudo snap remove vlc

9. Handy Tips for New Explorers

  • apt list –installed – See what’s currently installed.
  • man curl – Read the manual for a command.
  • sudo apt upgrade – Upgrade all your packages.

10. When Things Go Wrong…

If you see an error, read it slowly. Most errors tell you what’s going on.

Need help? Copy the error message and do a quick search. The Ubuntu community is amazing, and chances are someone else already solved it.

And That’s a Wrap!

You did it! Installing packages is the heart of using Linux. You now know how to make your Ubuntu 24.04 setup feel like home.

Whether it’s a cool editor, a powerful tool, or just something fun — packages are the key to unlocking Ubuntu’s potential.

Happy installing! 😄