LibreOffice is a free and open-source productivity suite that offers an alternative to commercial software such as Microsoft Office. It includes several applications such as Writer (word processor), Calc (spreadsheet), Impress (presentation), Draw (vector graphics editor), Math (equation editor), and Base (database management system).
LibreOffice is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, and supports over 110 languages. Its features and performance have gained popularity among users, making it a great choice for personal, academic, and professional use. Some of the unique features and better performance areas of LibreOffice compared to other office suites such as OnlyOffice, WPS Office, and FreeOffice is:
- Compatibility with various file formats, including Microsoft Office, OpenDocument, and PDFs.
- Advanced PDF editing capabilities.
- Customizable toolbars and menus to suit users’ preferences.
- A wide range of templates and extensions are available for free download.
- Higher level of privacy and security with no tracking or telemetry features.
- Ability to run on low-end hardware with limited resources.
- Active community support and frequent updates.
In contrast, OnlyOffice is known for its collaboration features, while WPS Office offers a familiar interface for Microsoft Office users, and FreeOffice focuses on simplicity and ease of use.
If you use Linux Mint 21 or Linux Mint 20, you can install LibreOffice using the official PPA repository. The guide will demonstrate how to do this, ensuring you can access LibreOffice’s latest features and updates.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Update Linux Mint
To ensure a seamless installation process without any potential conflicts or issues, updating your Linux system beforehand is highly advised with the following command:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeThis step will ensure that all existing packages are up to date and that your system runs smoothly.
Step 2: Pre-installation Steps
Before installing LibreOffice on your Linux system, it is crucial to confirm that all the necessary dependencies are present. These dependencies may consist of ca-certificates, apt-transport-https, software-properties-common, and LSB-release. To install them, open a terminal and execute the corresponding command suitable for your system:
sudo apt install ca-certificates apt-transport-https software-properties-common lsb-release -yIf you are unfamiliar with importing GPG keys or using PPAs on Launchpad, you might encounter a problem where the command line terminal fails to generate the required directories. This issue could affect the launch of LibreOffice or other software. Nonetheless, you can easily resolve this by executing a command to create the directories. Run the following command:
sudo gpg --list-keysBy executing this command, the requisite directories will be established, guaranteeing a seamless installation process for LibreOffice. The output on your terminal should resemble the following:
gpg: directory '/root/.gnupg' created
gpg: keybox '/root/.gnupg/pubring.kbx' created
gpg: /root/.gnupg/trustdb.gpg: trustdb createdStep 3: Import LibreOffice PPA
Before initiating the installation process for LibreOffice on your Linux system, it is necessary to import the relevant LibreOffice repository that corresponds to your desired installation version. The widely recommended option is to install the current release PPA, though additional backports and pre-release repositories are accessible as optional extras if required. By selecting the repository that meets your requirements, you can ensure access to your LibreOffice installation’s latest features and functionality.
To ensure that the downloaded software packages are genuine, you must download the GPG keys, which you can do by using the following command:
sudo gpg --no-default-keyring --keyring /usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg --keyserver keyserver.ubuntu.com --recv-keys 36E81C9267FD1383FCC4490983FBA1751378B444Example output if successful:
gpg: key 83FBA1751378B444: public key "Launchpad PPA for LibreOffice Packaging" imported
gpg: Total number processed: 1
gpg: imported: 1While installing LibreOffice on your Linux system, it is crucial to remember that you should only install the PPA that pertains to your specific requirements. There is no need to install all three PPAs. By choosing the relevant PPA for your desired installation version, you can prevent any possible conflicts or issues arising from the installation of unessential software.
Option 1 – Import LibreOffice PPA LibreOffice Fresh (Stable)
Import for Linux Mint 21 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/ppa/ubuntu jammy main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listImport for Linux Mint 20 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/ppa/ubuntu focal main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listOption 2 – Import LibreOffice PPA Pre-Release (Alpha, Beta)
Import for Linux Mint 21 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/libreoffice-prereleases/ubuntu jammy main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listImport for Linux Mint 20 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/libreoffice-prereleases/ubuntu focal main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listOption 3 – Import LibreOffice LibreOffice Still (Backports)
Import for Linux Mint 21 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/libreoffice-still/ubuntu jammy main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listImport for Linux Mint 20 users:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/libreoffice-ppa.gpg] https://ppa.launchpadcontent.net/libreoffice/libreoffice-still/ubuntu focal main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listStep 4: Install LibreOffice
The subsequent step involves executing an apt-update on your Linux Mint system to advance with the installation process. This command will refresh the package lists and enable you to access all installed software’s latest updates and features, including LibreOffice:
sudo apt updateTo install LibreOffice on your system, execute the following command in your terminal. This action will commence the installation process and guarantee the correct downloading and installation of all essential files and dependencies.
sudo apt install libreofficeStep 5: Launch LibreOffice
After successfully installing LibreOffice on your Linux system, you can launch the application via the terminal or the application icon. If you are a beginner in Linux and Linux Mint, follow these steps:
To Launch LibreOffice from the Terminal:
- Open your command terminal as you would normally.
- Type “libreoffice” without quotes.
To Launch LibreOffice from the Application Icon:
- Search for the application icon of LibreOffice on your Linux desktop.
- Click on the LibreOffice icon to launch the application of your choice.
Example of LibreOffice suite Application icons:
When you launch the LibreOffice suite on your Linux Mint system for the first time, you’ll discover various productivity tools that cater to your needs. Here’s what you can expect from each application:
Writer: This word processor application offers a variety of features for creating and editing documents. You can customize the font and formatting options, insert images and tables, and create a table of contents. Additionally, it offers a review feature to track changes and collaborate with others on the same document.
Calc: This spreadsheet program application allows you to organize, analyze, and present data in various ways. You can use it to create charts, graphs, and tables and even perform complex calculations. Moreover, it supports pivot tables, conditional formatting, and advanced statistical analysis.
Impress: This presentation software application lets you create professional-looking presentations with various multimedia options. You can add images, audio, video, animations, and special effects. Furthermore, it offers a master slide feature to customize the design and layout of your presentation.
Draw: This vector graphics editor application allows you to create graphics, diagrams, and flowcharts. You can use it to create 2D and 3D designs, logos, and other marketing materials. Additionally, it offers a connector feature to link different shapes and create complex diagrams.
Math: This formula editor application enables you to create mathematical equations and formulas. You can use it to create complex equations and generate graphs and charts based on your data. Furthermore, it offers a WYSIWYG editor, making it easy to use and edit mathematical equations.
Tips and ideas on customizing LibreOffice:
- Personalize the toolbars and menus to include the options you use most frequently for quick access.
- Customize the font and color schemes to suit your preferences and create a personalized workspace.
- Explore the extensions and add-ons available for LibreOffice, which can help you expand its capabilities and add new features.
- Experiment with templates and styles to create professional-looking documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Use the LibreOffice forum or documentation for assistance and advice on making the most of its features and customization options.
- Take advantage of the LibreOffice community support and share your tips and tricks with other users.
- Use the collaboration features to work with others on the same document and track changes.
- Customize the keyboard shortcuts to increase your efficiency and speed up your workflow.
- Use the built-in help and documentation to learn more about specific features and functions.
- Try out the experimental features to get a sneak peek into the future of LibreOffice.
By customizing LibreOffice to your liking and experimenting with its features and add-ons, you can optimize your productivity and make the most out of this open-source productivity suite.
Example of LibreOffice Suite on Linux Mint:
Additional Tips
Remove (Uninstall) LibreOffice
If you no longer need LibreOffice on your Linux system, removing it and freeing up system resources is straightforward. Here are the steps to uninstall LibreOffice:
sudo apt remove libreofficeThis command removes the LibreOffice package from your system.
If you also imported the LibreOffice PPA repository during installation, you may want to remove it to avoid potential conflicts with other software on your system. Here are the steps to remove the PPA:
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/libreoffice-ppa.listThis command removes the PPA from your system, preventing potential conflicts with other software on your Linux system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, installing LibreOffice on Linux Mint can provide you with a powerful suite of productivity tools to help you manage your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations efficiently. With simple commands, you can easily install LibreOffice on your Linux system and use its various applications to create, edit, and manage your files.
Moreover, LibreOffice offers a range of customization options that allow you to tailor the user interface to your preferences and expand its capabilities using extensions and add-ons. With its open-source nature and active community, LibreOffice also ensures you can access the latest updates, features, and bug fixes, making it a reliable and cost-effective alternative to proprietary software. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully install and use LibreOffice on your Linux Mint system and enjoy its benefits for your productivity needs.
FAQs on LibreOffice with Linux Mint
Q: What are the differences between LibreOffice and other productivity software on Linux Mint?
A: One of the main differences is that LibreOffice is an open-source software suite, which means it is free to use and modify. Additionally, LibreOffice offers a wider range of features and applications than other productivity software, including a word processor, spreadsheet program, presentation software, vector graphics editor, and formula editor.
Q: How do I change the language settings in LibreOffice on Linux Mint?
A: To change the language settings in LibreOffice on Linux Mint, open any LibreOffice application and go to the “Tools” menu. From there, select “Options” and then “Language Settings.” Here, you can choose the language you want to use for the user interface, as well as for spell-checking and other features.
Q: Is password-protecting a document in LibreOffice on Linux Mint possible?
A: Yes, it is possible to password-protect a document in LibreOffice on Linux Mint. To do so, open the document you want to protect and go to the “File” menu. Select “Save As” from there and then check the box next to “Save with password.” Enter your chosen password and confirm it, and then save the document.
Q: Can I use LibreOffice to create and edit PDF files on Linux Mint?
A: Yes, you can use LibreOffice to create and edit PDF files on Linux Mint. LibreOffice Writer has a built-in PDF export feature, which allows you to save your documents as PDF files. Additionally, you can use LibreOffice Draw to edit existing PDF files.
Q: How do I customize the toolbars and menus in LibreOffice on Linux Mint?
A: To customize the toolbars and menus in LibreOffice on Linux Mint, go to the “Tools” menu and select “Customize.” Here, you can add, remove, or rearrange icons on the toolbars and menus and create your custom toolbars.
Q: Does LibreOffice on Linux Mint support collaboration and version control?
A: Yes, LibreOffice on Linux Mint supports collaboration and version control. You can use the built-in collaboration features, such as commenting and track changes, to work with others on shared documents. Additionally, you can use third-party version control tools, such as Git, to manage document changes.
Q: Can I use LibreOffice on Linux Mint to create presentations with animations and special effects?
A: Yes, you can use LibreOffice on Linux Mint to create presentations with animations and special effects. LibreOffice Impress, the presentation software in the LibreOffice suite, offers a range of multimedia options, including images, audio, video, animations, and special effects.
Q: What file formats can I save my documents in using LibreOffice on Linux Mint?
A: LibreOffice on Linux Mint can save your documents in various file formats, including OpenDocument Format (ODF), Microsoft Office formats, PDFs, and plain text. Additionally, you can save your documents in other formats using third-party extensions or add-ons.
Q: Can a LibreOffice document be converted to a different file format on Linux Mint?
A: Yes, it is possible to convert a LibreOffice document to a different file format on Linux Mint. Go to the “File” menu and select “Save As.” From there, choose the desired file format to which you want to convert the document and save it in that format.