5 reasons to use Flatpak to install software on Linux

You're probably used to the frustration when software fails to install. Unfortunately, this is something almost every Linux user encounters once or twice - and that's where application distributions like Flatpak come in handy.

Here are some of the best advantages that you can enjoy installing Linux software using Flatpak.

1. Flatpak works on many different Linux distributions

All in all, you don't have to worry about which distro you're using if you want to download something using Flatpak. One of the most appealing qualities of this package manager is that it's universal - and in the process, it's also made the software popular.

You can solve most problems with incompatible software by downloading your new apps with Flatpak. This will save you a lot of time and stress as you won't have to worry about struggling with your package manager until you get something working.

2. Flatpak can prevent Dependency Hell

Flatpak is very effective in preventing 'Dependency Hell' (conflicting programs that require different versions of software or libraries to work). Many Linux users find themselves falling into Dependency Hell when they have different applications that require different versions of packages. Since you can only have one version of a package at a time, this is a big deal.

This is where Flatpak becomes extremely useful. If you don't want the software to be incompatible with the packages you're currently using on your system, one of the best things you can do is install apps through Flatpak.

Every Flatpak app is effectively sandboxed, so you won't have to worry about the two interfering with each other - you can comfortably use both at the same time.

3. Flatpak apps are sandboxed

Flatpak applications are completely isolated from everything else on your system. As mentioned before, the fact that every application is sandboxed can get you out of Dependency Hell - but that's not the only benefit it offers. You can also download apps through Flatpak to help keep your system secure.

Typically, applications have access to many files and resources on your system. While this may be fine for trusted apps, it can put you at risk if you accidentally download a malicious app.

However, if you accidentally download a malicious app through Flatpak, it will only be able to access the small sandbox environment in which the app is quarantined.

4. Flatpak has forward compatibility

Updating your system regularly comes with a lot of benefits. In addition to fixing security issues, updates help keep your computer running efficiently. However, updates can cause problems as they make your computer incompatible with the programs you rely on.

Flatpak apps solve this problem because they work on any system that is compatible with Flatpak itself. You won't have to worry about old apps running on your operating system because Flatpak will make sure they're supported. It's a great tool to simplify and resolve any compatibility concerns you may have.

5. Flatpak has many applications

While Flatpak has a lot of benefits, they won't go far if Flatpak itself has too few app options. Luckily, you can choose from over 2,000 apps created by over 1,500 GitHub contributors as you browse the Flathub store.

There are many different programs for you to choose from. You can download Parallel Launcher if you like emulating games, or look for apps like IPLAN and VueScan if you need a few extra office gadgets. Almost every app you need can be found on Flathub.

Micah Soto

Update 27 June 2023