How to Install VeraCrypt on Linux Mint 22 or 21

VeraCrypt is a powerful open-source encryption software that provides enhanced security for your data. It is widely used for creating encrypted containers, encrypting entire partitions, or even full-disk encryption. VeraCrypt is known for its robust encryption algorithms, ease of use, and cross-platform compatibility, making it an excellent choice for users who need to protect sensitive information on their systems.

To install VeraCrypt on Linux Mint 22 or 21, you can use a well-known PPA that has consistently maintained the latest stable builds of VeraCrypt for many years. This guide will walk you through the installation process using the command-line terminal, ensuring you have the latest version of VeraCrypt with all the latest security patches and features.

Update Linux Mint Before VeraCrypt Installation

Before starting the VeraCrypt installation, ensuring your Linux Mint system is up-to-date is essential. This will help prevent conflicts with existing packages. To update your system, open a terminal and run the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Add VeraCrypt PPA

The VeraCrypt installation will use a repository from the Launchpad PPA maintained by Unit 193 since the software is not in the default APT repository.

To import the VeraCrypt PPA, execute the following command in the terminal:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:unit193/encryption -y

Update the Package List After VeraCrypt APT PPA Import

Before proceeding with the installation, run an APT update to reflect the newly imported PPA. To do this, enter the following command:

sudo apt update

Finalize VeraCrypt Installation

With the PPA successfully added and the package list updated, you can now install VeraCrypt. To install the application, use the following command:

sudo apt install veracrypt

Launch VeraCrypt on Linux Mint

Now that VeraCrypt is installed, you have several software launch options.

Option 1: Launch from Terminal

You can open VeraCrypt from the terminal using the following command:

veracrypt

Option 2: Launch from the Application Menu

For those who prefer using the graphical interface, you can find VeraCrypt in the application menu by following this path:

Taskbar > Accessories > VeraCrypt

Additional Commands with VeraCrypt

Update VeraCrypt

To ensure your VeraCrypt installation stays up-to-date, as well as your other packages and system components, it’s a good practice to run the following command in the terminal regularly:

sudo apt upgrade && sudo apt upgrade

This command is handy for users new to Linux, even if you have automatic GUI updates or notifications enabled.

Remove VeraCrypt

If you no longer need VeraCrypt and wish to remove it from your system, you can use the following commands based on your installation method:

sudo apt remove veracrypt

Additionally, if you don’t plan on using the software again, it’s a good idea to remove the associated PPA:

sudo add-apt-repository --remove ppa:unit193/encryption

Conclusion

With VeraCrypt successfully installed on your Linux Mint system, you can take advantage of its advanced encryption features to protect your data. Using the trusted PPA ensures you have the latest stable build, keeping your system secure with up-to-date encryption capabilities. Regularly check for updates to maintain the highest level of security for your encrypted data. Enjoy the peace of mind that VeraCrypt offers for safeguarding your sensitive information on Linux Mint.