How to Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

VSCodium, a compelling alternative to the widely recognized Visual Studio Code (VSCode), offers a blend of familiarity and enhanced privacy. Understanding its unique attributes is crucial for those aiming to install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy Jellyfish or its older stable release Ubuntu 20.04 Focal Fossa.

Distinguishing Features of VSCodium:

• Privacy-Centric: Unlike VSCode, which sends telemetry data to Microsoft, VSCodium respects user privacy by not tracking or transmitting such data.
• Genuine Open Source: While VSCode is open-source, the binaries most users install contain proprietary elements from Microsoft. VSCodium, in contrast, remains purely open-source, devoid of any such additions.
• Consistent Functionality: VSCodium mirrors the feature set of VSCode. This ensures users retain access to familiar tools and extensions without any compromise.
• Platform Versatility: VSCodium, like its counterpart, is cross-platform, supporting Windows, MacOS, and Linux. This ensures users across different operating systems can leverage its benefits.
• Transparency and Trust: Built directly from the source code of VSCode, VSCodium’s transparency fosters trust among its user base. Its community-driven approach further amplifies this trust, as it thrives on contributions and collaborative enhancements.

For advocates of open-source software, privacy enthusiasts, or the simply curious, transitioning to VSCodium offers a refreshing experience. This transition doesn’t sacrifice functionality but amplifies user trust and software freedom.

In the subsequent sections, we’ll guide you through the process to install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04, ensuring you’re equipped to embrace a development environment that prioritizes both functionality and privacy.

Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via APT PPA

Step 1: Refreshing and Updating Ubuntu System Packages

First, we want to ensure our Ubuntu system has the latest package listings and versions. This is a vital preliminary step to avoid conflicts during VSCodium’s installation. Utilize the command below to update your package list:

sudo apt update

After updating the package list, we can upgrade any outdated packages. This step will ensure that all installed software is up-to-date, improving overall system stability. The following command will perform the upgrade:

sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Installing Initial Packages For VSCodium on Ubuntu

For VSCodium to function correctly, specific dependencies must be on your system. These packages are essential components for the proper installation and functioning of VSCodium. The command below will ensure these dependencies are installed:

sudo apt install dirmngr software-properties-common apt-transport-https curl -y

If these packages are already on your system, this command will ensure they are updated to their latest versions.

Step 3: Add VSCodium Repository on Ubuntu

The next step involves importing the GPG key and the VSCodium repository into our Ubuntu system. This action is required to allow your system to recognize and trust the source of VSCodium.

Firstly, we import the GPG key. The GPG key is a security feature that ensures the authenticity of the downloaded packages. This command fetches the key and installs it:

curl -fSsL https://gitlab.com/paulcarroty/vscodium-deb-rpm-repo/raw/master/pub.gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor | sudo tee /usr/share/keyrings/vscodium.gpg > /dev/null

Having secured our connection with the GPG key, we proceeded to import the VSCodium repository. The repository is the source from which we’ll download VSCodium. Execute the following command to add the repository to your system:

echo deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/vscodium.gpg] https://download.vscodium.com/debs vscodium main | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/vscodium.list

Step 4: Refreshing the APT Packages Index After VSCodium PPA Import

After adding the new VSCodium repository, we need to run another APT update. This update will ensure that your system recognizes the newly added VSCodium repository and includes it in the package listings. The below command will update the APT packages index:

sudo apt update

Step 5: Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via APT Command

Now that our system is primed and ready, we can install VSCodium. You can install either the standard stable release, which mirrors the VSCode’s stable build, or the pre-release version (Insiders), a counterpart of VSCode’s Insiders build. The two versions can be installed side-by-side as they are independent.

To install the stable release of VSCodium, use the following command:

sudo apt install codium -y

Alternatively, if you’re interested in the latest features and don’t mind occasional hiccups, you can opt for the pre-release version by running:

sudo apt install codium-insiders -y

Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Snap

The second method to install VSCodium will utilize the natively installed Snap package manager on your Ubuntu system. For new users of Linux, mainly Ubuntu, leveraging Snap is a hassle-free method to integrate and manage software on Ubuntu. This section will demonstrate how to seamlessly introduce VSCodium, an open-source version of the Visual Studio Code editor, using Snap.

Step 1: Verify Snap Before VSCodium Installation

If you find that Snap isn’t on your Ubuntu setup, it’s a cinch to add with the following command:

sudo apt install snapd -y

Step 2: Activate Classic Snap Support for VSCodium on Ubuntu

Particular snaps, VSCodium included, benefit from operating in ‘classic’ mode, which grants more expansive access to the system’s assets. For optimal performance, enable this mode with the ensuing command:

sudo ln -s /var/lib/snapd/snap /snap

Step 3: Incorporate the Core Snap

Before proceeding with VSCodium, it’s prudent to install the ‘core’ snap. This foundational Snap ensures the harmonious interaction of all Snap applications on your system. You can achieve this with the command:

sudo snap install core

Step 4: Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Snap

Now, with the groundwork laid, you’re poised to install VSCodium. Kickstart the installation process with this command:

sudo snap install vscodium

Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak and Flathub

The third installation method for VSCodium with Ubuntu will utilize the Flatpak Package Manager. Let’s delve into the straightforward steps to install VSCodium using Flatpak and Flathub.

Step 1: Import Flathub Repository for VSCodium on Ubuntu

Our initial move is to amalgamate the Flathub repository with our system. By achieving this, we lay the foundation to install VSCodium and other Flatpak applications seamlessly.

To facilitate this merger, enter the command below in your terminal:

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

Once executed, this command integrates the Flathub repository, extending your Flatpak setup to include many applications, with VSCodium being a prime highlight.

Step 2: Install VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak Command

With the Flathub repository, we can pivot to VSCodium’s installation. This involves the flatpak install command. To kickstart VSCodium’s deployment, use the following:

flatpak install flathub com.vscodium.codium -y

This command fetches VSCodium directly from Flathub and ensures optimal installation on your system.

If your setup isn’t Flatpak-ready, it’s essential to integrate Flatpak first. For a deeper dive into Flatpak’s installation on Ubuntu, consider browsing our dedicated guide on installing Flatpak.

Initiating VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

After successfully installing VSCodium, you might be eager to launch it and start exploring. Two primary methods exist to open the VSCodium application on Ubuntu, through the command line terminal or the Graphical User Interface (GUI).

CLI Methods to Launch VSCodium on Ubuntu

For those who prefer a swift interaction with the terminal, VSCodium can be conveniently started by running the codium command. This launches the stable release of VSCodium that was installed earlier:

codium

Alternatively, if you installed VSCodium via Snap or Flatpak, use the following command to match your installation method to launch VSCodium:

snap run codium

flatpak run com.vscodium.codium

If you opted to install the pre-release version (also known as the Insiders version), you could launch it using the codium-insiders command:

codium-insiders

VSCodium springs to life using these commands, ready to facilitate your coding needs.

GUI Method to Launch VSCodium on Ubuntu

If you are more comfortable using the GUI or want to familiarize yourself with the Ubuntu interface, you can launch VSCodium with a few clicks.

From your desktop, follow the below pathway:

• Click on Activities in the top-left corner of your desktop.
• Navigate to Show Applications – symbolized by a grid of dots, typically at the bottom of the dock.
• Here, among your installed applications, you will find VSCodium. Click on it to launch.

Tips on Getting Started with VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

VSCodium is a powerful and versatile code editor that offers a wide range of features to streamline your coding experience. The tips below are designed to help you maximize VSCodium’s capabilities on Ubuntu Linux.

Personalizing Your VSCodium Workspace with Ubuntu

VSCodium allows you to tailor the appearance of your workspace to suit your personal preferences. There are several settings you can adjust to optimize your working environment:

• Themes: You can switch between different themes to change the look and feel of your editor. Access this setting by navigating to File > Preferences > Color Theme.
• Font Size: If you find the default font size too small or too large, you can adjust it. You’ll find this option under File > Preferences > Settings. Search for ‘Editor: Font Size’ in the search bar.
• Word Wrap: For a better viewing experience, you can choose to wrap long lines of code so they don’t extend off the screen. This option can be found under File > Preferences > Settings. Search for ‘Editor: Word Wrap’.

Remember, these are just a few examples of the vast customization options that VSCodium provides.

Making Use of Extensions with VSCodium on Ubuntu

One of VSCodium’s greatest strengths is its extensibility. The built-in Extensions Marketplace offers numerous extensions to enhance your coding productivity. You can access the Extensions Marketplace via the square icon on the Activity Bar side of the workspace. Some popular extensions to consider are:

• Python: A fully-featured Python language support extension.
• GitLens: Supercharge the Git capabilities built into VSCodium.
• Docker: It makes creating, managing, and debugging containerized applications easy.
• ESLint: Integrates ESLint JavaScript into VSCodium.

Utilizing Built-in Git Support with VSCodium on Ubuntu

VSCodium has built-in support for Git, enabling you to manage your version control without switching between different applications. To start using this feature, open a folder that contains a Git repository, and the Source Control view will display the changes.

Leveraging the Integrated Terminal with VSCodium on Ubuntu

The Integrated Terminal in VSCodium allows you to run command-line tools directly from within your editor, eliminating the need to switch to a separate terminal window. To open the terminal, use the shortcut Ctrl + ~ or navigate to View > Terminal.

These tips will give you a head start on your journey with VSCodium on Ubuntu Linux. The software has additional features and options, so don’t hesitate to explore and experiment.

Additional VSCodium Commands with Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

The following section will guide you through essential management tasks for your VSCodium installation on Ubuntu Linux. This includes instructions for updating your installed packages and removing VSCodium from your system.

Update VSCodium on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

To keep VSCodium and all other installed software up-to-date, you should regularly check for updates. Linux makes this process relatively straightforward. Use one of the following commands that match your installation method initially with VSCodium:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

snap refresh

flatpak update

The commands above will blanket check for updates for VSCodium and any packages installed using the package manager of your choice.

Remove VSCodium from Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

APT Remove Command Method for VSCodium on Ubuntu

The process is relatively simple if you wish to uninstall VSCodium from your system. There are separate commands for removing the stable build and the insider build of VSCodium.

sudo apt remove codium

sudo apt remove codium-insiders

Post uninstallation, removing the VSCodium repository from your system is good practice to maintain a clean package list.

sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/vscodium.list

For an extra measure of housekeeping and security, you should also remove the GPG key related to VSCodium.

sudo rm /usr/share/keyrings/vscodium.gpg

Snap Remove Command Method for VSCodium on Ubuntu

VSCodium installations with Snap, run the following command to remove the software:

sudo snap remove codium

Flatpak Remove Command Method for VSCodium on Ubuntu

Lastly, Flatpak installations of VSCodium run the following command to remove the software:

flatpak uninstall com.vscodium.codium

Final Thoughts

We’ve journeyed through installing and managing VSCodium on Ubuntu Linux, providing you with a firm foundation to utilize this powerful open-source code editor. From updating your system’s packages, installing the required dependencies, importing the VSCodium repository, and finally installing the software, every step was designed to enhance your understanding and equip you with the tools necessary to manage this tool efficiently. Additionally, the tips section helped bridge the gap between installation and productive usage, arming you with valuable insights to tailor the editor to your specific needs.