How to Install DEB Package Files Using the Terminal and Software Centre in Ubuntu

While the vast majority of Ubuntu software is installed directly from official APT repositories or Snap packages via the Ubuntu App Centre, many popular everyday applications—such as Google Chrome, Steam, Discord, VS Code, and Zoom—are distributed directly by their developers as standalone .deb package files. Similar to .exe installers on Windows or .dmg files on macOS, a DEB file contains all pre-compiled application binaries, icons, and desktop shortcuts. Installing these packages on Ubuntu is straightforward whether you prefer a graphical interface or a quick terminal command.

Before You Begin: Downloading the Correct Package

When downloading software from official project websites, always ensure you select the 64-bit .deb (Debian/Ubuntu) version rather than RPM packages (intended for Fedora/Red Hat) or source tarballs. Save the downloaded file to your standard Downloads folder.

Method 1: Install Using the Terminal via APT (Recommended)

The command line is the most reliable method because the modern apt tool automatically detects, downloads, and configures any missing background dependencies required by the application:

1. Open the Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
2. Navigate to your Downloads folder by running:

   cd ~/Downloads

3. List the files to confirm the exact package filename:

   ls *.deb

4. Install the package using the apt command with superuser privileges (be sure to include the preceding ./ so apt knows to look in your local directory rather than remote repositories):

   sudo apt install ./filename.deb

   Replace “filename.deb” with the actual name of your file (for example, sudo apt install ./google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb).
5. Type your Ubuntu account password when prompted and press Enter (no characters or asterisks will appear on screen while typing passwords).
6. If additional dependencies are needed, press Y and Enter to confirm.
7. Once complete, your new application will immediately appear in the Ubuntu Show Applications menu.

Method 2: Install Graphically via the Ubuntu App Centre

If you prefer a mouse-driven experience without typing commands:

1. Open the Files manager and click on your Downloads folder.
2. Locate the downloaded .deb file.
3. Right-click the file and select Open With Other Application.
4. Select App Centre (or Software Install on older Ubuntu releases) and click Select.
5. The package details page will load displaying the application name, version, and developer details.
6. Click the green Install button in the top-right corner.
7. Enter your user password when prompted for administrative authentication.
8. When the progress bar finishes and displays “Installed”, close the window and launch your program from the desktop dock.

How to Uninstall a DEB Package Later

If you no longer need the software, you can remove it cleanly from your system without leaving leftover configuration files:

sudo apt remove package-name

Followed by running sudo apt autoremove to sweep away any orphaned dependencies that are no longer in use.