How To Run Executable Files with Double Click on Ubuntu

Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution, is widely used in both personal and professional environments. While its command-line interface is powerful and versatile, there are times when you might want to run an executable file with a simple double click, much like you would in a Windows environment. This article will guide you through the process of setting up your Ubuntu system to run executable files with a double click.

Running Console Applications

If you’re working with a console application, you can typically run it by double-clicking the file and selecting the “run in terminal” option. However, this method may not work if the program requires root permission.

For instance, if you have an executable file named myProgram, you can double click on it and choose “Run in Terminal”. The terminal will open and run your program. If your program requires user input, the terminal will stay open until you’ve provided the necessary input.

Creating a .desktop File

Another way to run an application by double-clicking is to create a .desktop file. This file contains information about the application and how it should be executed. Here’s an example of a minimal .desktop file:

[Desktop Entry]
Type=Application 
Exec=/path/to/executable --options
Icon=/path/to/icon
Terminal=false

In the above example:

• Type=Application indicates that this is an application .desktop file.
• Exec=/path/to/executable --options specifies the path to the executable file and any options that should be passed to it when it’s run. Replace /path/to/executable with the actual path to your executable file, and --options with any options your program requires.
• Icon=/path/to/icon specifies the path to the icon that should be displayed for this application. Replace /path/to/icon with the actual path to your icon file.
• Terminal=false tells the system not to open a terminal when running this application.

Save this file in the desired location (e.g., ~/Desktop/) and give it executable permission using the command chmod +x filename.desktop. You can now run your application by double-clicking the .desktop file.

Configuring File Manager or Nautilus

In some cases, you can configure your file manager or Nautilus to run executable text files with a double click. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open the file manager or Nautilus.
2. Go to “Edit” and select “Preferences”.
3. Under the “Behavior” tab, find the “Executable Text Files” section.
4. Enable the option “Ask each time” or “Run executable files when they are opened”.

By following the steps above, executable text files will either run automatically when double-clicked, or you’ll be prompted to choose an action each time you double-click an executable text file.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to run an executable file with a double click on Ubuntu. However, please note that some applications may still require root permission or may not be suitable for running directly from the GUI. Always ensure you understand the implications of running an executable file before doing so.