How to Install UNRAR on Linux Mint 21/20

UnRAR is a versatile, freeware utility developed by RARLAB that allows users to extract files from RAR archives. RAR is a widely-used, proprietary archive file format that supports data compression, error recovery, and file spanning. The freeware version of UnRAR is essential for users who wish to access the contents of RAR archives without the need for a paid license. In this introduction, we will explore the key features and differences between the freeware version of UnRAR and its paid counterpart, WinRAR.

Key Features of UnRAR (Freeware Version):

File Extraction: UnRAR enables users to easily extract files from RAR archives, making it simple to access compressed data.
Command-Line Interface: The freeware version of UnRAR is primarily a command-line tool, which makes it ideal for advanced users and automation tasks.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: UnRAR is available for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring users can access RAR archives on their preferred operating system.

Differences between UnRAR and WinRAR:

License: UnRAR is a freeware utility, while WinRAR is a paid, commercial software. This means that users can use UnRAR without any restrictions or fees.
Functionality: WinRAR offers a wider range of features than UnRAR, including archive creation, encryption, and an intuitive graphical user interface. UnRAR, on the other hand, focuses primarily on RAR file extraction.
Updates: WinRAR typically receives more frequent updates and improvements, whereas UnRAR may not be updated as regularly.
Technical Support: As a paid software, WinRAR offers dedicated technical support for its users. In contrast, UnRAR users may need assistance from community forums or online resources.

In conclusion, UnRAR is a powerful, free utility for extracting files from RAR archives, making it an indispensable tool for users who need access to compressed data without the added cost or functionality of paid software. Now the guide will demonstrate how to install UnRAR on Linux Mint 21 or Linux Mint 20 distribution using the default apt repository for the latest versions available, making updating easier in the future.

Table of Contents

Section 1: Install UNRAR on Linux Mint

In this section, we’ll walk you through the process of installing UnRAR on Linux Mint. By following these steps, you can extract and manage RAR archives on your Linux Mint system.

Update Linux Mint

Before installing UnRAR, you must update your Linux Mint operating system to ensure all existing packages are up to date. To do this, open a terminal window and run the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Install UnRAR (RARLab Version)

With your system updated, you can now proceed with the installation of UnRAR using the following command:

sudo apt install unrar

The command above installs the RARLab version of UnRAR, which is the primary focus of this article.

Install UnRAR (Open Source)

As an alternative, if you prefer using open-source, non-proprietary software, you can install the unrar-free package with the following command:

sudo apt install unrar-free

Please be aware that unrar-free does not support RAR 4 or 5, making the UnRAR package a potentially more suitable choice. Additionally, keep in mind that the commands for unrar-free may differ from the common UnRAR command examples provided later in this guide.

Section 2: Common Basic UNRAR Commands

To become proficient in using UnRAR, it’s crucial to learn some of the most common and basic commands that will help you manage and extract files from RAR archives efficiently.

1. Extract Files without Archived Paths

Command

unrar e archive.rar

Explanation

This command extracts files from the specified RAR archive (archive.rar) without preserving the archived paths. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to extract.

2. List Archive Contents

Command

unrar l archive.rar

Explanation

To list the contents of a RAR archive, use this command. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to view. The command will display a list of files contained within the archive.

3. Print File to Standard Output

Command

unrar p archive.rar file.txt

Explanation

This command prints the specified file (file.txt) within the RAR archive (archive.rar) to the standard output (stdout). Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file and file.txt with the file you want to print.

4. Test Archive Files

Command

unrar t archive.rar

Explanation

This command tests the specified RAR archive (archive.rar) for errors or corruption. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to test.

5. Verbosely List Archive Contents

Command

unrar v archive.rar

Explanation

To list the contents of a RAR archive verbosely, use this command. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to view. The command will display a detailed list of files contained within the archive, including file sizes and compression information.

6. Extract Files with Full Path

Command

unrar x archive.rar

Explanation

This command extracts files from the RAR archive (archive.rar) and preserves the full path of the files, meaning it will recreate the original folder structure within the archive. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to extract.

7. Set Password for Decrypting Archive

Command

unrar x -ppassword archive.rar

Explanation

This command extracts files from a password-protected RAR archive (archive.rar) using the specified password. Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to extract and password with the password for the archive.

8. Exclude Specified File

Command

unrar x -xfile_to_exclude.txt archive.rar

Explanation

This command extracts files from the RAR archive (archive.rar) while excluding the specified file (file_to_exclude.txt). Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to extract and file_to_exclude.txt with the file you want to exclude.

9. Update Files in the Archive

Command

unrar u archive.rar

Explanation

This command updates the files in the specified RAR archive (archive.rar). Replace archive.rar with the name of the RAR file you want to update. It will update only files that are older than the files in the archive.

10. Set Output Path for Extracted Files

Command

unrar x -op/destination/path/ archive.rar

Explanation

This command extracts files from the RAR archive (archive.rar) to the specified output path (/destination/path/). Replace archive.rar with the name of the

Conclusion: Installing UnRAR on Linux Mint

In summary, installing UnRAR on Linux Mint is a straightforward process that enables users to efficiently manage and extract files from RAR archives on their systems. By updating your Linux Mint system and choosing either the RARLab version or the open-source unrar-free package, you can equip your operating system with the necessary tools to handle RAR files. However, it’s essential to consider the differences between the two packages and their respective command sets when deciding which version to install.

Additional Resources and Links

To further expand your knowledge on UnRAR and related topics, the following list of resources offers official documentation, wikis, and support:

RARLab Official Website: https://www.rarlab.com
Description: The official website of RARLab, the creator of UnRAR and WinRAR, provides downloads, documentation, and licensing information for their products.
The Linux Mint Community: https://community.linuxmint.com
Description: Linux Mint’s official community website provides a platform for users to discuss, troubleshoot, and share their experiences with the Linux Mint operating system.

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