install vlc without snap

3 min read 26-02-2025

VLC is a popular, free and open-source media player known for its versatility and wide range of supported formats. While the Snap package is a convenient installation method, some users prefer alternative approaches. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on how to install VLC without using Snap, focusing on Debian-based systems (like Ubuntu) and other Linux distributions. We'll also cover troubleshooting common issues.

Why Avoid Snap for VLC Installation?

The Snap package manager offers a straightforward installation process. However, some users opt for alternative methods due to concerns about:

Increased disk space usage: Snap packages often include dependencies and libraries, leading to larger installation sizes.
Performance overhead: Some users report slower startup times or performance issues with Snap-installed applications.
Security considerations: While Snap offers security features, some prefer the control offered by traditional package managers.
Updates: Snap's update mechanism can sometimes be less predictable than traditional package managers.

Installing VLC Without Snap: Different Approaches

The optimal installation method depends on your Linux distribution. Here are the most common approaches:

Method 1: Using the Official VLC Repository (Recommended for Debian/Ubuntu)

This method leverages VLC's official repository, ensuring you receive the latest stable version and updates directly from the source. It's generally the preferred method for Debian-based systems.

Step 1: Add the VLC repository:

Open a terminal and add the VLC repository using these commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install apt-transport-https
wget -qO - https://download.videolan.org/pub/debian/videolan-apt.asc | sudo apt-key add -
sudo sh -c 'echo "deb https://download.videolan.org/pub/debian/ stable main" > /etc/apt/sources.list.d/videolan.list'

Step 2: Update your package list and install VLC:

Next, update your package list and install VLC:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install vlc

Step 3: Verify Installation:

Launch VLC from your applications menu. If it starts successfully, you have successfully installed VLC without Snap.

Method 2: Using Your Distribution's Package Manager (Alternative for other distros)

Most Linux distributions have VLC available through their default package managers. Check your distribution's documentation for the specific command. Examples include:

Fedora/CentOS/RHEL: sudo dnf install vlc or sudo yum install vlc
Arch Linux: sudo pacman -S vlc
openSUSE: sudo zypper install vlc

Remember to replace the command with the one relevant to your specific distribution.

Method 3: Downloading and Installing the .deb Package (for Debian/Ubuntu)

You can manually download the .deb package from the official VLC website and install it.

Step 1: Download the .deb Package:

Visit the official VLC website (https://www.videolan.org/) and download the .deb package appropriate for your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

Step 2: Install the .deb Package:

Open a terminal, navigate to the directory where you downloaded the .deb file, and execute the following command:

sudo dpkg -i vlc*.deb

Step 3: Resolve Dependencies (if necessary):

If any dependencies are missing, you might need to run:

sudo apt-get install -f

This command fixes broken dependencies.

Troubleshooting VLC Installation Issues

If you encounter problems during the installation, here are some common solutions:

Permission Errors: Ensure you run installation commands with sudo for administrator privileges.
Dependency Issues: Use sudo apt-get install -f (or the equivalent for your distribution) to resolve missing dependencies.
Network Problems: Ensure your internet connection is stable during the download and installation process.
Incorrect Package Name: Double-check the package name (vlc) in your installation command.

Conclusion

Installing VLC without Snap is straightforward using the methods described above. Choosing the right method depends on your Linux distribution and personal preferences. Remember to always download software from official sources to ensure security and stability. By following these steps, you can enjoy the power and flexibility of VLC without relying on the Snap package manager.