How to Install CMake on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04 or 20.04

This guide will demonstrate how to install CMake on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04 LTS Linux releases using the command-line terminal. You can choose from two methods: utilizing the Default APT repository version or downloading and compiling the source .tar.gz archives to install the latest binary version.

CMake is a powerful tool that enhances software development on Ubuntu, a widely used Linux distribution. Its features are designed to streamline the building and testing of software, making it a valuable asset for developers.

CMake Features:

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works across different operating systems, aiding in the development of versatile applications.
• Compiler Independence: Generates native makefiles and workspaces, enabling use with various compilers.
• Flexible Build Options: Allows customization of the build process to fit specific project needs.
• GUI and Command-line Interaction: Offers both graphical interface and command-line operation for ease of use.
• Out-of-Source Builds: Supports building in separate directories to keep source directories clean.
• Multiple Configuration Types: Allows for different build types, like release and debug, in the same build directory.
• Scripting Language Support: Comes with a scripting language tailored for describing build processes.
• Testing Support: Integrates with testing frameworks, simplifying the testing process.
• Extensive Documentation: Provides thorough documentation, aiding in quick learning and troubleshooting.

These features make CMake a versatile and efficient choice for software developers working with Ubuntu. Up next, we will explore the detailed installation steps.

Install CMake on Ubuntu via One of Two Methods

Update Ubuntu Before CMake Installation

Begin by updating your Ubuntu system to prevent potential conflicts during the CMake installation. Use the following command to update and upgrade your system packages:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Select the Installation Method of CMake on Ubuntu

Method 1: Install CMake with APT on Ubuntu

For convenience and ease of maintenance, installing CMake from Ubuntu’s repository is the recommended approach for most users. Run the following command to install CMake:

sudo apt install cmake

Post-installation, confirm the successful installation of CMake by checking its version:

cmake --version

Method 2: Install CMake by Compiling Source on Ubuntu

Compiling from source is the go-to method for users needing CMake’s latest features. This approach requires manual updates, offering the latest version but at the cost of convenience.

Before starting, install the necessary dependencies using:

sudo apt install build-essential checkinstall zlib1g-dev libssl-dev -y

Next, visit the CMake GitHub releases page to get the latest version link. Avoid using outdated links; always check for the newest release.

To download the .tar.gz archive, adapt the following command with the latest version link:

wget https://github.com/Kitware/CMake/releases/download/<version>/cmake-<version>.tar.gz

Important Note: Ensure you select the correct package. For instance, if you’re installing cmake-3.26.0-rc2.tar.gz, don’t mistakenly choose a pre-built version like cmake-3.26.0-rc2-linux-x86_64.tar.gz.

Extract the archive with:

tar -zxvf cmake-{version number}.tar.gz

Navigate to the extracted directory:

cd cmake-{version number}

Verify that all dependencies are correctly installed before proceeding. Next, initiate the build process by running the Bootstrap script:

./bootstrap

After bootstrap completion, build the package using:

make

To install the compiled CMake, execute:

sudo make install

This step might take a few minutes.

Finally, verify the CMake installation:

cmake --version

Test CMake Installation on Ubuntu

Creating a Test Directory

To verify the CMake installation, start by creating a new directory for a simple “Hello, World!” program. In the terminal, execute:

mkdir test-hello && cd test-hello

Setting Up CMakeLists

Next, create a CMakeLists.txt file using the nano editor:

sudo nano CMakeLists.txt

In this file, input the following configuration:

cmake_minimum_required(VERSION 3.16)
project(HelloWorld)
add_executable(hello main.cpp)

Save and exit the editor (CTRL+X, then press Y).

Creating the Main C++ File

Now, create a main.cpp file:

sudo nano main.cpp

Add the basic C++ code to print “Hello, World!”:

#include <iostream>

int main()
{
    std::cout << "Hello, World!" << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Again, save and exit the editor.

Generating the Makefile

With the files in place, generate a makefile using CMake:

cmake .

Building the Program

Compile the program by running:

make

Running the Program

To execute the program, enter:

./hello

The terminal should display “Hello, World!”, confirming the correct functioning of CMake on your Ubuntu system.

Conclusion: Installing CMake on Ubuntu Linux

We’ve successfully navigated through the steps to install CMake on Ubuntu, covering both the straightforward APT method and the more hands-on approach of compiling from source. While the APT method offers ease and stability, compiling from source puts the latest features at your fingertips. Remember, the choice depends on your project’s needs and your comfort with manual updates. Don’t hesitate to experiment with creating simple programs like our “Hello, World!” example to get comfortable with CMake’s capabilities. As you continue, you’ll find CMake an invaluable tool in your development toolkit, streamlining your build processes on Ubuntu.