New Linux user here. Is this really how I'm supposed to install apps on Linux?
New Linux user here. Is this really how I'm supposed to install apps on Linux?
https://mullvad.net/en/help/install-mullvad-app-linux
Trying to install VPN and these are the instructions Mullvad is giving me. This is ridiculous. There must be a more simple way. I know how to follow the instructions but I have no idea what I'm doing here. Can't I just download a file and install it? I'm on Ubuntu.
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Can’t I just download a file and install it?
Yes, there are instructions on the page for that, the section is titled 'Installing the app without the Mullvad repository'
As a side note, dealing with adding repos and keys and all that is something I will never miss from apt. I use Arch and installing things is usually as simple as.. well let me check.
$ yay mullvad ... 2 aur/mullvad-vpn-bin 2023.6-1 (+86 1.36) The Mullvad VPN client app for desktop 1 aur/mullvad-vpn 2023.6-1 (+126 2.10) The Mullvad VPN client app for desktop ==> Packages to install (eg: 1 2 3, 1-3 or ^4) ==> _And it's option 1. So easy. Type 1 and press enter and you're done.
I find having these options confusing and I am not a newb
Both options will install the Mullvad client from the AUR. (If you use an arch derivative, that already tells you some things. If you don't, then you are missing some context.) The first option will install from binary, the second will compile from source. Which you choose is up to you.
If you blindly chose one over the other because you didn't know, worst case you end up being impatient if it takes awhile to compile from source.
No, worst case you install actual malware. Anyone can upload to the AUR, not just trusted users.
Usually the *-bin version just means it downloads the already compiled binaries instead of compiling the program on your computer.
You should also always check the PKGBUILD for something suspicious. AUR packages are put there by users, and are not verified.
Interesting. Thanks.