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How to Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
Last Updated on by Joshua James
For those venturing into web development on Ubuntu systems, WebStorm emerges as a beacon. This Integrated Development Environment (IDE) by JetBrains is not just another tool; it’s a comprehensive platform tailored for web developers. In this guide, we’ll delve into the nuances of “How to Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy Jellyfish or Ubuntu 20.04 Focal Fossa”, highlighting its features and the value it brings to the table.
Key Features of WebStorm for Ubuntu Users
Intelligent Coding: WebStorm offers real-time coding assistance, detecting errors on the fly, providing smart code completion, and facilitating sophisticated navigation for JavaScript, TypeScript, and various stylesheet languages. Its compatibility with modern frameworks further amplifies its utility.
Comprehensive Debugging: Equipped with built-in debugging capabilities, WebStorm allows developers to debug JavaScript seamlessly. Its prowess extends to Node.js, Electron, and mobile applications, offering an all-in-one debugging solution.
Frontend Development Tools: With tools tailored for advanced frontend development, WebStorm stands out. It features visual tools for CSS and HTML editing and a live preview for instant browser updates. Its support for React, Angular, Vue.js, and Node.js ensures it meets the demands of modern web development.
Customizability: WebStorm champions a personalized development experience. From themes to key bindings, developers can mold the IDE to their preferences. Its extensive plugin repository further augments its capabilities.
Our subsequent sections will elucidate how to install WebStorm on the mentioned Ubuntu versions. We’ll explore multiple installation avenues, including the APT method with the unofficial JetBrains PPA by Jonas Groeger and alternative package managers like Snap or flatpak. While centered on these Ubuntu versions, the methods are adaptable to other Ubuntu releases still in their support phase.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via APT PPA
The Advanced Packaging Tool (APT) is a package management system that forms the backbone of Ubuntu and other Debian-based distributions. We will harness APT’s capabilities to install WebStorm, a premier Integrated Development Environment (IDE) by JetBrains.
Step 1: Refreshing the Ubuntu System Before WebStorm Installation
We must keep our system’s local package database updated to ensure the smooth installation of new software. This activity ensures that your Ubuntu system is aware of the latest versions of available software. Here’s the command to update the package database:
sudo apt update
After updating the package database, we should also upgrade the system. This action ensures that all your installed software is up-to-date, which results in a more secure and stable operating environment. Here’s how to perform the system upgrade:
sudo apt upgrade
Step 2: Install Essential Packages
Our installation journey includes adding some essential packages to our system. These packages, namely dirmngr, ca-certificates, software-properties-common, apt-transport-https, curl, and LSB-release, are instrumental in managing secure file transfers, handling repositories, and other critical package-related tasks.
Execute the following command to install these packages:
Step 3: Integrating the JetBrains PPA by Jonas Groeger
Next, we need to add the JetBrains Personal Package Archive (PPA) to the system’s list of repositories. Adding this repository will allow APT to fetch WebStorm directly from JetBrains’ PPA.
To ensure the authenticity of the packages from this repository, we’ll import the GPG key for the JetBrains repository. The GNU Privacy Guard (GPG), an implementation of the OpenPGP standard, verifies that the packages in the repository are genuinely from JetBrains. Run the following command to import the GPG key:
With the GPG key now imported, run the following command to add the repository:
echo "deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/jetbrains-ppa-archive-keyring.gpg] http://jetbrains-ppa.s3-website.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com any main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/jetbrains-ppa.list > /dev/null
Step 4: Refreshing the APT Package Index
Updating the APT package database is essential when integrating a new repository. This action ensures your system can fetch the latest package information from the newly added JetBrains PPA. Here’s how to perform this update:
sudo apt update
Step 5: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via APT Command
Finally, we are ready to install WebStorm. Your system is familiar with the WebStorm package from the JetBrains PPA and is prepared to retrieve and install it. Use the following APT install command to commence the installation process:
sudo apt install webstorm
The command above prompts APT to download WebStorm, resolve any required dependencies, and install them on your system. This step marks the successful completion of the WebStorm installation process.
Section 2: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Snap
Snap is a powerful software deployment and package management system developed by Canonical, the organization behind Ubuntu. Its design aims to simplify the software installation process and maintenance tasks across different Linux distributions. This section provides a detailed guide on how to install WebStorm utilizing the Snap package manager.
Step 1: Confirming the Presence of Snap on Your Ubuntu System
Being a Canonical product, Snap comes pre-installed on most Ubuntu distributions. However, there could be scenarios where Snap isn’t pre-loaded or has been manually removed. If you encounter such a situation, you can reinstall Snap onto your system using the command below:
sudo apt install snapd -y
This command installs the Snap Daemon (snapd), a background service that manages and maintains Snap packages on your system.
Step 2: Enabling Classic Snap Support for WebStorm on Ubuntu
Some Snap packages require ‘classic’ confinement – a feature that gives the Snap package access to your system’s resources, akin to conventional software. To facilitate broad compatibility and seamless operation of these packages, we create a symbolic link (symlink) using the command below:
sudo ln -s /var/lib/snapd/snap /snap
Executing the command above creates a symlink between /var/lib/snapd/snap and /snap, effectively enabling classic Snap support on your system.
Step 3: Install the Core Snap for WebStorm on Ubuntu
Before initiating the WebStorm installation, installing the ‘core’ Snap is crucial. This core Snap serves as a base for other Snaps, offering the required libraries and services they depend upon. This proactive step can help prevent potential conflicts or issues that might arise later. To install the core Snap, use the following command:
sudo snap install core
Step 4: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Snap Command
With the prerequisites in place, we are now prepared to install WebStorm. This can be accomplished by executing the following command:
sudo snap install webstorm --classic
In the above command, sudo is used to provide elevated privileges, snap calls upon the Snap package manager, install is the action to install a package, and webstorm is the package we’re targeting for installation. The --classic option allows WebStorm to access your system’s resources like a traditionally packaged application.
Section 3: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak and Flathub
Flatpak is a universal package management system specifically tailored for Linux. It shares standard functionalities with Snap but distinguishes itself with a unique sandboxing feature. This feature isolates applications from the rest of the system, enhancing security and reducing potential software conflicts. This section presents a step-by-step guide on installing WebStorm via Flatpak and Flathub.
Step 1: Activating the Flathub Repository for WebStorm on Ubuntu
The first step towards installing WebStorm through Flatpak is to activate the Flathub repository. Flathub serves as a reputable distribution platform that hosts Flatpak applications. It functions like an online marketplace, providing access to various applications ready for installation.
To integrate the Flathub repository into your system, execute the following command in your terminal:
The command above weaves the Flathub repository into your Flatpak configuration, thus extending access to a wide range of applications, including WebStorm.
Step 2: Install WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak Command
Once you’ve successfully incorporated the Flathub repository, the next step involves installing WebStorm. This is achieved using the flatpak install command. The specific command for installing WebStorm is:
flatpak install flathub com.jetbrains.WebStorm -y
Running this command initiates the installation of WebStorm from the Flathub repository, ensuring the application’s latest stable version is available.
It’s important to note that if your system doesn’t support Flatpak, you’ll need to install it first. For detailed instructions on how to install the most recent supported version of Flatpak on Ubuntu, we recommend visiting our comprehensive guide on installing Flatpak.
Section 4: Launching WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
After successfully installing WebStorm on your Ubuntu system, you are ready to take the next step: starting the application. Two primary ways to launch WebStorm are the command-line interface (CLI) and the graphical user interface (GUI). Both methods cater to different user preferences, providing flexibility in interacting with the system. This section provides a detailed explanation of how to launch WebStorm using both these methods.
Launching WebStorm through the Command-Line Interface (CLI) on Ubuntu
In the realm of Linux, the command-line interface is an integral tool, and launching applications like WebStorm is no exception. The following subsections outline how to initiate WebStorm using various command sets, depending on your installation method—APT, Snap, and Flatpak.
Launching WebStorm Using the APT Command on Ubuntu
To launch WebStorm with the APT command, open your terminal and input:
webstorm
This command will initiate the Integrated Development Environment (IDE), preparing it for your coding tasks.
Launching WebStorm Using the Snap Command on Ubuntu
If you have installed WebStorm using Snap, the command to launch it will be:
snap run webstorm
Once executed, this command will start WebStorm, assuming the installation was successful.
Launching WebStorm Using the Flatpak Command on Ubuntu
If you have chosen Flatpak as your preferred installation method, the following command in your terminal will launch WebStorm:
flatpak run com.jetbrains.WebStorm
This command will set WebStorm into action, provided that the installation was executed correctly.
Step 2: Launching WebStorm through the Graphical User Interface (GUI) on Ubuntu
Ubuntu’s graphical user interface (GUI) offers an alternative way to start WebStorm for users who are more at ease with a visual approach. The procedure involves the following steps:
Activities Menu: Start by clicking on the Activities menu, located at the top-left corner of your desktop screen.
Show Applications: Next, select the Show Applications icon at the bottom of the Activities overlay.
Search for WebStorm: You can scroll through your applications or use the search bar to find WebStorm quickly.
Launch WebStorm: Finally, click the WebStorm icon to launch the IDE, readying it for your coding work.
PinClick on the WebStorm icon in the ‘Show Applications’ menu to launch the IDE on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 Linux.
Section 5: Getting Started with WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
You might wonder what’s next after successfully installing and launching WebStorm on your Ubuntu system. How can you make the most out of this powerful IDE? Here are some tips and tricks that can help enhance your productivity and ease your coding tasks in WebStorm.
General Tips with WebStorm on Ubuntu
Useful Shortcuts: WebStorm has many keyboard shortcuts to streamline your coding process. For instance, Ctrl + Shift + F allows you to search the entire project. Spend some time learning these shortcuts to improve your productivity significantly.
Version Control: WebStorm has built-in support for version control systems like Git. You can perform Git operations from the IDE without needing a separate Git client.
Code Completion: WebStorm’s intelligent code completion feature can be a significant time-saver. As you type, WebStorm suggests suitable code snippets or variables to use.
Refactoring: WebStorm allows you to refactor your code efficiently. With the Ctrl + Alt + Shift + T shortcut, you can refactor your code by renaming symbols, extracting methods, inline variables, and more.
Customization Tips with WebStorm on Ubuntu
Editor Themes: WebStorm allows you to customize the look and feel of your IDE with various editor themes. You can choose a theme that best suits your preference from File > Settings > Appearance & Behavior > Appearance.
Code Style: You can customize the code style WebStorm uses to match your personal preference or your team’s coding standards. Go to File > Settings > Editor > Code Style.
Plugins: WebStorm supports many plugins that add extra functionality to your IDE. You can install these plugins from File > Settings > Plugins.
Other Tips with WebStorm on Ubuntu
Integrated Terminal: WebStorm has an integrated terminal that can be very useful. You can open it by pressing Alt + F12. This saves you from switching between the IDE and a separate terminal window.
Live Templates: WebStorm comes with several pre-defined live templates for various languages. You can also create custom templates to automate repetitive coding tasks.
Debugging: WebStorm has excellent debugging tools. You can set breakpoints, step through your code, and inspect variables in the IDE.
PinA glimpse of the default user interface of WebStorm by JetBrains once launched on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 Linux.
Section 6: WebStorm Additional Commands on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
In this guide segment, we’ll delve into the methods of managing WebStorm on your Ubuntu Linux platform. This involves utilizing distinct command-line procedures to update and uninstall the IDE. Our primary focus will be on the unique steps required by package managers such as APT, Snap, and Flatpak.
Update WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
In the realm of software applications, maintaining an up-to-date status is of paramount importance. Regular updates deliver cutting-edge features, vital security patches, and performance improvements. Therefore, getting to grips with updating WebStorm using different package managers is an essential skill to acquire.
Utilizing the APT Command for WebStorm Update on Ubuntu
Advanced Package Tool, more commonly known as APT, is a widely adopted package management system in Ubuntu. The process of updating WebStorm using APT encompasses two main steps. The first is to refresh the package list to ensure it reflects the most current status of all packages. Following this, an upgrade command is issued to apply the updates. Here are the commands that facilitate these operations:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
Updating WebStorm via the Snap Command on Ubuntu
Snap, conceived by Canonical, is a software packaging and deployment framework. Regarding updating WebStorm, the Snap command provides a straightforward approach. To execute this operation, the following command is required:
sudo snap refresh webstorm
Please note if you installed WebStorm as a snap package, it will manage updates automatically. All snaps are updated automatically in the background every day.
Leveraging the Flatpak Command to Update WebStorm on Ubuntu
Flatpak is a versatile tool for software deployment, package management, and application virtualization on Linux systems. To perform an update of WebStorm via Flatpak, the subsequent command needs to be invoked:
sudo flatpak update
Notably, these commands update all outdated packages, reinforcing the best practices to maintain your system’s security and optimal performance.
Remove WebStorm on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04
You might need to uninstall WebStorm from your Ubuntu Linux system in certain circumstances. The following subsections will outline the steps for accomplishing this task.
Removing WebStorm Using the APT Command on Ubuntu
To disengage WebStorm using APT, the command given below should be executed:
sudo apt remove webstorm
In case you do not intend to reinstall WebStorm or use the JetBrains third-party APT PPA, the repository and GPG, key can also be purged with these commands:
Uninstalling WebStorm via the Snap Command on Ubuntu
The process of uninstalling WebStorm using Snap is straightforward. Run the following command:
sudo snap remove webstorm
Utilizing the Flatpak Command to Remove WebStorm on Ubuntu
Lastly, to disengage WebStorm using Flatpak, you need to run the command below:
sudo flatpak uninstall com.jetbrains.WebStorm
Final Thoughts
WebStorm is a mighty and versatile IDE, providing a comprehensive suite of tools and features that can significantly enhance your development workflow. We have navigated through the installation, initial configuration, and management of WebStorm on Ubuntu Linux, shedding light on the different methods and procedures pertinent to these tasks. It’s important to remember that while WebStorm offers a wide array of functionalities, the developer’s familiarity and comfort with the tool truly unlock its potential. As such, we encourage you to explore, experiment with, and refine your usage of WebStorm on Ubuntu Linux, molding an environment that best caters to your unique development needs.
