Element is a free and open-source software instant messaging client implementing the Matrix protocol. It supports end-to-end encryption, groups, and sharing of files between users on this platform! If you’re looking for an open-source, encrypted messaging client that offers group chats and file-sharing functions, then Element is one of the best options. The client is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, so you can use it on any device you own.
One of the great things about Element is that it’s backed by a large community of developers constantly working to improve the software. So if you encounter any bugs or problems while using Element, you can rest assured that they’ll be fixed quickly. In addition, all of your data is stored securely on your device, so you don’t have to worry about it being accessed by anyone else. If security and privacy are important to you, then Element is worth checking out.
In the following tutorial, you will learn how to Install Riot Desktop or better known as Element now, on Linux Mint 21 LTS release series using the command line terminal to import the Riot or better known as Element.io official repository and gpg key and install the desktop chat client editor, along with how to maintain and remove the software if required in the future.
Table of Contents
Update Linux Mint
Firstly, it is advised to update your system to ensure all existing packages are up to date to avoid any conflicts during the installation.
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeInstall Required Packages
The following packages must be installed to assist in installing the software.
sudo apt install dirmngr ca-certificates software-properties-common gnupg gnupg2 apt-transport-https curl -yIf unsure, run the command; it will not harm you.
These are the most common software packages found on nearly all Linux distributions.
Import Element Matrix Desktop Client Repository
First, you will need to import the GPG key to verify the authenticity of the installation package.
curl -fSsL https://packages.riot.im/debian/riot-im-archive-keyring.gpg | gpg --dearmor | sudo tee /usr/share/keyrings/riot-im-archive-keyring.gpg > /dev/nullSecondly, import the repository with the following command in your terminal.
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/riot-im-archive-keyring.gpg] https://packages.riot.im/debian/ default main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/riot-im.listInstall Element Matrix Desktop Client
With the source repository sorted, you must refresh your apt package manager sources list to reflect the new addition before the installation.
Run the following command in your terminal to reflect the newly added repository.
sudo apt updateNow install the software with the following command:
sudo apt install riot-desktopHow to Launch Element Matrix Desktop Client
The best way to use the client for desktop users that prefer not to use the command line terminal is to open the GUI of the application by following the path.
Taskbar > Internet > Element
Example:
Once launched, you can sign in or create an account along with explore rooms. Ideally, you may like the idea of Matrix hosting your self-hosted server in the long term.
Example:
Congratulations, you have installed the chat client.
How to Remove (Uninstall) Element Matrix Desktop Client
To remove the software from your system, run the following command in your terminal.
sudo apt autoremove riot-desktop --purgeNote that the –purge flag removes all data created with Element.
Next, remove the repository using the following command.
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/riot*For good housekeeping and security, remove the GPG key as follows.
sudo rm /usr/share/keyrings/riot*Comments and Conclusion
If you’re looking for a secure and private messaging client that also offers group chats and file sharing, then Element is one of the best options out there. It’s open-source software constantly being improved by a large community of developers, so any bugs you encounter will be fixed quickly. Plus, all your data is stored securely on your device, so you don’t have to worry about it being accessed by anyone else.
