How to Install PlayOnLinux on Fedora 39, 38 Linux

This guide will demonstrate how to install PlayOnLinux on Fedora Linux using the command-line terminal with either the DNF package manager or Flatpak with the Flathub repository.

PlayOnLinux is a versatile tool designed to help Linux users enjoy a vast array of Windows applications and games without the need for a Windows operating system. It acts as a graphical front-end for Wine, simplifying the process of using Wine with its user-friendly interface and automated scripts. Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or someone who needs access to Windows-specific software, PlayOnLinux provides a valuable solution that enhances the Linux computing experience.

Key features and highlights of PlayOnLinux include:

  • Compatibility Layer: Facilitates running Windows applications on Linux, offering extensive support for numerous titles.
  • Automated Scripts: Simplifies installation processes for various applications, ensuring ease of use.
  • Graphical User Interface: Provides an intuitive way to manage Wine versions and installed applications.
  • Manual Installation Support: Offers flexibility for users who prefer to customize their Wine configurations.
  • No Windows License Required: Enables access to Windows applications without needing a Windows OS license.
  • Regular Updates: Ensures compatibility with the latest applications and improvements in user experience.
  • Community Contributions: Benefits from scripts and solutions shared by an active community.
  • Free and Open Source: Aligns with the principles of open-source software, allowing for transparency and customization.

These features make PlayOnLinux a crucial tool for those seeking to bridge the gap between Linux and Windows software environments.

Now, let’s dive into the technical steps to install PlayOnLinux on Fedora Linux.

Install PlayOnLinux on Fedora via DNF

Update Fedora Before PlayOnLinux Installation

Prioritize updating your Fedora system to ensure compatibility and security before installing new software. This step helps mitigate issues by providing the latest patches and improvements.

sudo dnf upgrade --refresh

Executing the above command refreshes the repository metadata and updates all packages to their latest versions.

Install PlayOnLinx via DNF Command

After updating your system, proceed with the installation of PlayOnLinux. This software allows for the easy use of numerous Windows applications on Linux.

To do this, enter the following command.

sudo dnf install playonlinux

Inputting this command into the terminal will download and install PlayOnLinux from the Fedora repository. The DNF package manager simplifies the process by resolving dependencies automatically.

Install PlayOnLinux on Fedora via Flatpak with Flathub

Another option for installing PlayOnLinux on your Fedora system is to use the Flatpak package manager. Flatpak is a popular Linux application packaging and distribution system that allows for the easy installation and management of applications across multiple Linux distributions.

Ensure Flatpak is Installed on

Ensure that Flatpak, a universal package system for Linux, is installed on your Fedora system. If it’s missing, you can install it with the following command:

sudo dnf install flatpak

This installs Flatpak, enabling you to manage applications consistently across various Linux distributions.

Enable Flathub for PlayOnLinux Installation

Flathub is a comprehensive repository for Flatpak applications. To access PlayOnLinux and other applications, add Flathub to your system:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

This command configures Flathub as a remote source for your Flatpak installations, expanding your access to a broader range of applications.

Install PlayOnLinux via Flatpak Command

With Flathub now enabled on your system, you can proceed to install PlayOnLinux by entering the following command in your terminal:

flatpak install flathub org.phoenicis.playonlinux

This will initiate the download and installation process, and once complete, PlayOnLinux will be ready to use on your Fedora system.

Troubleshooting PlayOnLinux Flatpak Installation

If you face issues during the installation and see an error indicating that the Flathub repository is disabled, enable it with this command:

sudo flatpak remote-modify --enable flathub

Enabling the repository rectifies the error and allows the installation of PlayOnLinux through Flatpak.

Launch PlayOnLinux on Fedora

Once you have successfully installed PlayOnLinux on your Fedora system using one of the methods described, you can launch the application directly from your terminal.

CLI Commands to Launch PlayOnLinux

To do this, open a terminal window and enter the following command:

playonlinux

If you have installed PlayOnLinux using the Flatpak package manager, you can launch the application by entering the following command in your terminal:

flatpak run org.phoenicis.playonlinux

GUI Method to Launch PlayOnLinux

Many desktop users prefer to launch applications using the application icon, which can be easily accessed through the following path:

Activities > Show Applications > PlayOnLinux
Screenshot showing how to launch PlayOnLinux from the Applications Menu on Fedora Linux.
Navigate to the Applications Menu to launch PlayOnLinux on your Fedora Linux system.

First-Time Tips for PlayOnLinx on Fedora

Establish Your PlayOnLinux Environment

Optimizing Graphics Drivers:

Before delving into PlayOnLinux, ensure your graphics drivers are up to par for an optimal experience. This involves checking your current driver status and considering an upgrade if necessary.

  • To check your current graphics driver:
glxinfo | grep "OpenGL version"
  • Upgrading your graphics driver will depend on your specific graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).

Enhancing System Performance:

  • Close unnecessary applications to free up resources.
  • If you have a dual graphics card setup, configure your system to use the more powerful GPU for PlayOnLinux.

Customizing PlayOnLinux for Better Usability

Tailoring the Interface:

  • Access the PlayOnLinux Preferences to adjust the appearance and behavior of the application to suit your workflow.
  • You can alter themes, fonts, and window behaviors, making it more compatible with your Fedora environment.

Managing Virtual Drives:

  • PlayOnLinux uses virtual drives to compartmentalize different Windows environments. To manage these:
    • Use the Manage virtual drives feature to create, remove, or modify your virtual drives.
    • Each drive can be configured with specific versions of Wine or with different settings, depending on the requirements of your Windows applications.

Streamlining PlayOnLinux Application Management

Organizing Your Applications:

  • Categorize your installed applications for quick access and management.
  • Regularly back up your virtual drives to avoid data loss and ensure easy recovery of your setups.

Leverage Wine Versions:

  • PlayOnLinux allows the installation of multiple Wine versions. Use the version best suited for your application to prevent compatibility issues.
  • To manage Wine versions, navigate to Tools > Manage Wine Versions within PlayOnLinux.

Additional Tips for PlayOnLinux to Enhanced Experience with Fedora

Keyboard Shortcuts:

These are crucial for streamlining your workflow in PlayOnLinux. Here are some commonly used shortcuts that can help you navigate more efficiently:

  • Alt + F4: Close the current window or quit PlayOnLinux.
  • Ctrl + C: Copy selected text or items in PlayOnLinux.
  • Ctrl + V: Paste copied text or items within PlayOnLinux.
  • Ctrl + Z: Undo an action in PlayOnLinux settings or text fields.
  • Ctrl + S: Save changes in a PlayOnLinux configuration window.
  • Ctrl + Tab: Switch between open windows or tabs within the PlayOnLinux interface.
  • Ctrl + F: Open the search function to quickly locate specific settings or options.
  • F1: Access PlayOnLinux help resources or manual.

Community Support:

  • Engage with the PlayOnLinux and Fedora Linux communities for support, tips, and shared configurations.
  • Check out forums and user groups for advice on running specific applications within PlayOnLinux.

Following these tips, you can create a more efficient and tailored PlayOnLinux experience on your Fedora Linux system, ensuring a smoother operation of your Windows-based applications in a Linux environment.

Screenshot of PlayOnLinux running the Flatpak version on a Fedora Linux desktop.
Example of using the Flatpak version of PlayOnLinux on Fedora Linux.
Screenshot of PlayOnLinux running the Fedora Repository version on a Fedora Linux desktop.
Example of using the Fedora Repository version of PlayOnLinux on Fedora Linux.

Additional PlayOnLinux Commands with Fedora

Remove PlayOnLinux

If you’ve installed PlayOnLinux via DNF, removal is a single command away:

sudo dnf remove playonlinux

Executing this command will purge PlayOnLinux and its associated data from your Fedora system.

For those who opted for the Flatpak installation, the removal process is just as streamlined:

flatpak remove  --delete-data org.phoenicis.playonlinux

This command uninstalls PlayOnLinux and deletes all associated data, including any virtual drives created within the application. It’s an essential step to maintain a clean system environment after the removal of software packages.

Conclusion

In this guide, we walked you through the installation of PlayOnLinux on Fedora Linux, offering a simple path to access a wide array of Windows applications and games right from your Linux environment. Remember, PlayOnLinux is a powerful ally in making your Linux system more versatile, enabling you to run software not natively available for Linux. Keep exploring the various applications it supports and customize your experience to get the most out of your Linux system. Happy computing, and don’t hesitate to dive deeper into what PlayOnLinux can offer!

Leave a Comment


Your Mastodon Instance
Share to...