GParted, or GNOME Partition Editor, is a powerful, free partition editor for graphically managing disk partitions. With GParted, users can effortlessly resize, copy, and move partitions without data loss, enabling more efficient disk space management. This utility supports a broad range of file systems, making it an indispensable tool for IT professionals and enthusiasts looking to tweak and optimize their storage solutions.
So, if you are still curious, why install GParted on Ubuntu?
- Versatility: Supports numerous filesystems, ensuring broad compatibility.
- No Data Loss: Safely resize, move, or copy partitions.
- Free and Open Source: Available at no cost, with open-source benefits.
- User-Friendly: Graphical interface simplifies partition management.
- Live CD/USB: Operate from a live session without booting into the OS.
- Batch Operations: Queue up changes and apply them all at once.
- Disk Health Monitoring: Includes tools to assess disk health.
- Advanced Features: Recovery, disk cloning, and more for seasoned users.
Opting for GParted on Ubuntu provides a straightforward yet powerful toolset for managing disk space, whether for routine maintenance or preparing a system for a new operating system installation. Its intuitive interface and robust functionality suit both novices and seasoned professionals.
Let’s dive into how to get GParted installed on your Ubuntu system.
Update Your Ubuntu System Before GParted Installation
Before installing GParted, ensuring that your Ubuntu system is up-to-date is essential. This practice helps maintain system stability and ensures you have the latest security patches and software updates.
To update your Ubuntu system, open a terminal and run the following command:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
This command will first update the package list (sudo apt update
) and then upgrade all installed packages to their latest versions (sudo apt upgrade
).
Select GParted Installation Method with APT Package Manager
Option 1: Install GParted with Ubuntu’s Repository
Ubuntu includes GParted in its default repository, eliminating the need to download or install third-party repositories. To install GParted using Ubuntu’s repository, run the following command:
sudo apt install gparted
This command will install GParted and all its necessary dependencies on your Ubuntu system.
Option 2: Install GParted with PPA
If you prefer a newer version of GParted, you can install it from the “xtradeb packaging” team’s PPA. First, import the PPA with the following command:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:xtradeb/apps -y
This command adds the “xtradeb packaging” team’s PPA to your system.
Next, update your APT package list to include the new repository:
sudo apt update
Lastly, install GParted from the newly added PPA with the following command:
sudo apt install gparted
Launching GParted on Ubuntu via CLI or GUI
This section will guide you through different methods of launching GParted once installed on your Ubuntu system. GParted can be started through the terminal or the graphical user interface (GUI).
CLI Command to Launch GParted
One method to launch GParted’s graphical interface is by using the terminal. This approach is constructive for users more comfortable working with command-line tools. To launch GParted from the terminal, enter the following command:
gparted
Upon executing this command, GParted’s graphical interface will appear, allowing you to manage and modify your disk partitions.
GUI Method to Launch GParted
For those who prefer the graphical interface, GParted can be launched by locating its application icon in the Ubuntu desktop environment. To find the GParted application, follow these steps:
- Click on the Activities button in the top-left corner of your screen.
- Select Show Applications at the bottom of the Activities menu.
- In the search bar, type “GParted” and press Enter.
- Click on the GParted icon to launch the application.
Additional Commands with GParted
Remove GParted
There may come a time when you no longer need GParted on your Ubuntu Linux system. In such cases, you can easily uninstall the software and remove all associated data.
To altogether remove GParted and all data associated with it, enter the following command in the terminal:
sudo apt remove gparted
This command will prompt you to enter your password, and after doing so, it will proceed to uninstall GParted from your system.
Closing Thoughts
In this guide, we’ve walked through the steps to install GParted on Ubuntu, showcasing two methods: using the APT Package Manager for the default repository version and opting for the XtradDeb Applications LaunchPAD PPA for those seeking the latest release. As a final recommendation, always remember to back up your data before making any changes and take your time to familiarize yourself with the tool’s capabilities.