Skype is a popular communication tool that provides video chat and voice call services, allowing users to transmit both text and video messages. It’s a fantastic tool for both personal and professional communication. This article will guide you through the process of installing Skype on Ubuntu using different methods.
To install Skype on Ubuntu, you have several methods to choose from. You can install Skype using the Skype for Linux Deb package, the Snap package, or manually through the Skype website or Ubuntu Package Manager. Additionally, you can install the beta version of Skype or use Flatpak for installation. Choose the method that suits your preferences and follow the provided steps to install Skype on Ubuntu.
Method 1: Installing Skype for Linux Deb Package (Version 8+)
The first method to install Skype on Ubuntu is by using the Skype for Linux Deb package. Here are the steps:
- Download the Skype for Linux Deb package: You can download this package directly from the official Skype website. Navigate to the download page and select the option for Ubuntu 64-bit.
- Install the Deb package: Once downloaded, you can install the package using the Ubuntu Software Center or GDebi. Alternatively, you can use the terminal. Open the terminal and navigate to the directory where the package is downloaded. Then, use the following command:
sudo apt install ./skypeforlinux-64.debIn this command, sudo gives you administrative privileges, apt install is the command to install a package, and ./skypeforlinux-64.deb is the name of the package to be installed.
- Update Skype: After installation, the package will add a repository to your system to keep your Skype installation up to date via Ubuntu’s package update process.
Method 2: Installing Skype Snap Package
Snap is a software deployment and package management system developed by Canonical for operating systems that use the Linux kernel. Here’s how to install Skype using the Snap package:
- Open the terminal: You can open the terminal by pressing
Ctrl + Alt + T. - Install Skype Snap package: Use the following command to install Skype:
sudo snap install skype --classicIn this command, sudo gives you administrative privileges, snap install is the command to install a snap package, skype is the name of the package to be installed, and --classic ensures that Skype has access to your system resources, which is necessary for its functionality.
- Update Skype: The Skype snap package will be automatically updated when new updates are available.
Method 3: Manual Installation via Skype Website
You can also manually install Skype on Ubuntu. Here are the steps:
- Download Skype: Visit the Skype website and download the Debian (.deb) file for Skype.
- Install Skype: Double-click on the downloaded file or right-click and open with Software Center to start the installation.
- Follow the installation process: During the installation, you’ll be prompted to enter your password. After finishing, you can find Skype by typing “Skype” in the search box or in the applications menu.
Method 4: Manual Installation via Ubuntu Package Manager
You can also use the Ubuntu Package Manager to install Skype. Here are the steps:
- Download Skype: Go to the Skype website and download the 64-bit Ubuntu package.
- Install Skype: Double-click on the downloaded package to start the installation through the Ubuntu Package Manager.
- Follow the installation process: During the installation, make sure to check for any warnings and follow the prompts.
Method 5: Installing Skype Beta Version
If you prefer to use the beta version of Skype, you can download the Debian (.deb) file from the Skype website and install it through the Software Center.
Method 6: Flatpak Installation
Flatpak is a technology for building, distributing, installing, and running sandboxed desktop applications on Linux. Here’s how to install Skype using Flatpak:
- Install Flatpak: Add the Flatpak PPA and run the necessary commands mentioned in the Flatpak installation guide.
- Install Skype: Use the
flatpak installcommand to install Skype for all users. - Restart or log in again: After restarting or logging in again, Skype should appear in application menus and search results.
In conclusion, there are several ways to install Skype on Ubuntu, and the method you choose depends on your preferences and the version of Ubuntu you’re using. Regardless of the method, once Skype is installed, you can start using it to connect with friends, family, or colleagues around the world.
Yes, you can install Skype on Ubuntu using different methods mentioned in this article.
The Skype for Linux Deb package is a traditional installation method that requires downloading and installing a specific package file. On the other hand, the Snap package is a newer installation method that allows for easier updates and system integration.
After installation, both the Skype for Linux Deb package and the Snap package will add a repository to your system, enabling you to update Skype using Ubuntu’s package update process.
Yes, you can manually install Skype by downloading the Debian (.deb) package from the Skype website and installing it through the Software Center or Ubuntu Package Manager.
Yes, you can download the beta version of Skype from the Skype website and install it through the Software Center or Ubuntu Package Manager.
Flatpak is a technology for building, distributing, installing, and running sandboxed desktop applications on Linux. It provides a way to install and manage applications independently of the Linux distribution.
To install Skype using Flatpak, you need to first install Flatpak on your system by following the installation guide mentioned in the article. After that, you can use the flatpak install command to install Skype for all users.
