Arch Linux’s AUR (Arch User Repository) is a vast collection of user-contributed packages that allow users to install and update software with ease. While Arch Linux is not for everyone, many users love the flexibility it offers. However, what if you’re an Ubuntu user and want to access the AUR? In this article, we’ll explore how you can run the Arch Linux AUR on Ubuntu.
Understanding the Arch Linux AUR
Before we dive into the steps of running the Arch Linux AUR on Ubuntu, let’s first understand what it is. The AUR is a community-driven repository that allows users to build and share packages for Arch Linux. It’s a powerful tool that provides access to many software applications and utilities that aren’t available in the official Arch Linux repositories.
What is an AUR Helper?
An AUR helper is a tool that automates the process of downloading and installing packages from the AUR. There are several AUR helpers available, including Yay, Trizen, and Pacaur.
How to Install Yay AUR Helper on Ubuntu
To access the AUR on Ubuntu, we need to install an AUR helper. Here, we will use Yay, which is one of the most popular AUR helpers. To install Yay, follow these steps:
Step 1: Add the Yay repository
First, we need to add the Yay repository to our system. Open the terminal and type the following command:
csharpsudo add-apt-repository universe
Step 2: Install Git and base-devel packages
Next, we need to install Git and base-devel packages. These packages are required to build packages from the AUR. Run the following command to install these packages:
csharpsudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install git base-devel
Step 3: Install Yay
Now, let’s install Yay using Git. Run the following command to clone the Yay repository:
bashgit clone https://aur.archlinux.org/yay.git
Next, change the directory to the cloned Yay repository:
bashcd yay
Finally, run the following command to build and install Yay:
makepkg -si
That’s it! Yay is now installed on your Ubuntu system, and you can use it to install packages from the AUR.
Using Yay to Install Packages from the AUR
Now that Yay is installed on your system, you can use it to install packages from the AUR. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Search for the package
First, search for the package you want to install. For example, let’s say you want to install the “spotify” package. Open the terminal and type the following command:
yay -Ss spotify
Step 2: Install the package
Once you have found the package you want to install, run the following command to install it:
javayay -S package-name
Replace “package-name” with the actual name of the package you want to install.
Step 3: Update packages
To update packages installed from the AUR, run the following command:
yay -Syu
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can access and install packages from the Arch Linux AUR on your Ubuntu system. Remember that the AUR is a community-driven repository, so always be cautious and verify the source of the packages before installing them. Also, keep in mind that some packages may not work correctly on Ubuntu due to differences in package dependencies and configuration.