Which is the best way to install software?

Bhanu999 · 09-27-2014, 08:36 PM

Hi all,
I've come to know that there are 2 ways for installing a software in Linux.
1) By using a tool like apt-get or yum (Depending on the OS)
2) By downloading a package and installing it manually

Please tell me which is the best way to install software in Linux.

frankbell · 09-27-2014, 08:44 PM

If you are using a distro that has repositories, as most of them do, using the package manager (apt-get or yum, for example) is the best way. The repos are curated and the package will run; plus, the package manager will resolve any dependencies.

On my Mint or Mageia boxes, the only time I compile from sources is if the package is not in the repos. It is, however, nice to know how to compile from sources and resolve dependencies on your own. If you've never done it, you should do it at least once.

Bhanu999 · 09-27-2014, 09:23 PM

Thank you very much!

frankbell · 09-28-2014, 08:47 PM

You are most welcome.