How to Install and Use Flatpak on Linux – Complete Beginner’s Guide

Flatpak packages offer a revolutionary approach to installing and managing applications across various Linux distributions, tackling the age-old issues of software compatibility and dependency conflicts. By utilizing a sandboxing technique, Flatpak enhances security and streamlines app installation, allowing users to enjoy the latest application versions without worrying about their underlying system. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to install, use, and manage Flatpak applications effectively.

Installing Flatpak on Your Linux Distribution

Step 1: Check Flatpak Installation
Before starting, verify if Flatpak is already installed by entering flatpak --version in your terminal. If you see a version number, you’re all set! If not, proceed with the installation.

Step 2: Install Flatpak
Use the appropriate package manager for your distribution to set up Flatpak:

• Ubuntu/Debian: sudo apt install flatpak
• Fedora/Red Hat: sudo dnf install flatpak sudo yum install flatpak
• Arch Linux: sudo pacman -S flatpak
• openSUSE: sudo zypper install flatpak
• Gentoo:
  Enable the ~amd64 keyword and run: emerge sys-apps/flatpak
• Void Linux: sudo xbps-install -S flatpak
• NixOS:
  Add the following line to your /etc/nixos/configuration.nix and apply changes: services.flatpak.enable = true; sudo nixos-rebuild switch

Step 3: Add the Flathub Repository
The Flathub repository is essential as it provides a wide range of applications. Add it by running:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Step 4: Restart
Log out and log back in, or reboot your system to ensure Flatpak is integrated properly with your desktop environment.

Installing Flatpak Applications

Step 1: Search for Applications
Find the applications you want using the Flathub website Flathub.org or through the terminal with:

flatpak search <application_name>

Step 2: Install Applications
To install an application, use:

flatpak install flathub <ApplicationID>

For example, to install Spotify:

flatpak install flathub com.spotify.Client

Step 3: Install from File
If you have a downloaded .flatpakref file, navigate to its directory and execute:

flatpak install <filename>.flatpakref

Step 4: Graphical Installation
For graphical installations, ensure Flatpak is integrated with your software center. On Ubuntu, install the Flatpak plugin:

sudo apt install gnome-software-plugin-flatpak

Now, double-clicking a .flatpakref file or clicking the “Install” button on Flathub will launch the software center.

Running, Updating, and Removing Flatpak Applications

Step 1: Launch Applications
Open installed Flatpak apps from your application menu, or run them via the terminal:

flatpak run <ApplicationID>

Step 2: Update Applications
To update all installed Flatpak applications, use:

flatpak update

For a specific application:

flatpak update com.spotify.Client

Step 3: List Installed Applications
View all installed Flatpak applications with:

flatpak list

Step 4: Uninstall Applications
Remove unnecessary applications using:

flatpak uninstall <ApplicationID>

Add --delete-data to also remove user data.

Step 5: Clean Up Unused Runtimes
Free up space by removing unused runtimes:

flatpak uninstall --unused

Understanding Flatpak Sandboxing and Permissions

Flatpak enhances security by isolating applications within sandboxes. This restricts their access to system files, hardware, and network resources. If an application requires additional permissions, Flatpak prompts for approval during installation or the first run.

To check or change permissions, use:

flatpak info --show-permissions <ApplicationID>

Or manage permissions with Flatseal, which is available as a Flatpak package.

Flatpak Integration with Software Centers

For seamless integration, install the appropriate Flatpak plugin for your software center. GNOME users can utilize the gnome-software-plugin-flatpak, while KDE users should install plasma-discover-flatpak-backend. This allows browsing, installing, and managing Flatpak applications alongside native packages in a user-friendly interface.

Conclusion

Flatpak packages provide a robust and flexible solution for installing applications across different Linux distributions, helping you bypass compatibility issues while enhancing your computing experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily install, manage, and enjoy a wide array of applications with confidence in their security. Take full advantage of Flatpak’s capabilities, and bring your Linux system to life with the latest software.