How to Install Zoom on Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04 or 20.04

Zoom is a widely-used video conferencing tool that enables virtual meetings, webinars, and collaboration across various platforms. It offers features such as HD video and audio, screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and breakout rooms, making it a popular choice for both professional and personal use. For Ubuntu users, Zoom can be installed using several methods, each offering different levels of flexibility and ease of use.

On Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04, you can install Zoom via three primary methods: using the .deb package manually downloaded and installed via dpkg, through the Snap package with Snapcraft, or via Flatpak with Flathub. Each method provides access to the latest Zoom features, and this guide will walk you through all three installation processes to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.

Method 1: Install Zoom via .deb DPKG

Update Ubuntu Before Zoom Installation

To ensure a smooth installation of Zoom on Ubuntu, it’s essential to update your system first. This will help avoid conflicts and ensure that your system is up-to-date. To update Ubuntu, open the terminal and enter the following command:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command updates the package list and installs available updates. The system may prompt you to enter your password to initiate the update process. After completing the update, proceed with the Zoom installation.

Download Zoom .deb Package

Using the .deb package method, you can download the official Debian-based package from the Zoom website to install the Zoom client on Ubuntu. By default, Zoom is not available in the default Ubuntu repository.

To download the package, open the terminal and enter the following command:

wget https://zoom.us/client/latest/zoom_amd64.deb

This will download the latest version of the Zoom package to your system.

Install Zoom on Ubuntu via DPKG Command

Once the download is complete, you can install the package using the following command:

sudo dpkg -i zoom_amd64.deb

This command will install the Zoom client on your system, allowing you to use it for video conferencing and collaboration.

Method 2: Install Zoom via Snap

Another method to install the Zoom client on Ubuntu is using Snapcraft, a package manager that comes pre-installed on most Ubuntu desktops. This method is usually faster and more straightforward than installing Zoom using a .deb package.

Install Snapd for Zoom

Before starting, verify Snapcraft installation on your system by executing the command below:

sudo apt install snapd

Install Zoom via Snap Command

Installing Zoom with Snapcraft is easy; run the following command to install the Zoom client on your desktop:

sudo snap install zoom-client

Method 3: Install Zoom via Flatpak and Flathub

The last method we will examine is learning to install Zoom via Flatpak. Flatpak is an integral component in the Linux toolkit for those new to Ubuntu or Linux in general, and it is celebrated for its impeccable sandboxing feature. This mechanism creates a secure harbor for applications, mitigating risks and providing a stable operational environment.

Alongside, Flathub is the trusted repository for housing Flatpak applications. Envision it as a digital toolbox, with Zoom as one of its essential instruments.

Note: If Flatpak isn’t part of your system yet, installing it before proceeding is crucial. For a thorough walkthrough on Flatpak installation on Ubuntu, refer to our dedicated installing Flatpak guide.

Ensure Flathub Activation for Zoom Installation

The Zoom installation begins with integrating the Flathub repository into your system. This move ensures that you have unobstructed access to Zoom and various other Flatpak applications.

Input the following command into your terminal:

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

When this command is executed, the Flathub repository becomes part of your existing Flatpak framework, opening doors to Zoom and many other applications.

Install Zoom via Flatpak Command

With the Flathub repository now at your fingertips, you are ready to proceed with the installation of Zoom. Utilize the flatpak install command to set the wheels in motion. For Zoom, the command is:

flatpak install flathub us.zoom.Zoom -y

Initiating this command pulls Zoom from the Flathub repository and installs it efficiently onto your system.

Launch Zoom via CLI Commands or GUI Path

CLI Commands to Launch Zoom UI

If you installed Zoom via the terminal and you are still in it, you can launch the Zoom client immediately with the corresponding command that matches your installation package manager:

DPKG Launch Command:

zoom

Snap Launch Command:

snap run zoom

Flatpak Launch Command:

flatpak run us.zoom.Zoom

GUI Location Path to Launch Zoom Application

While this method might be impractical, use the following desktop path to open Zoom:

Activities > Show Applications > Zoom

Additional Commands with Zoom

Update Zoom

DPKG Method to Update Zoom

To update Zoom, go to the Zoom website and download the latest .deb package for Ubuntu, or re-use the following command:

wget https://zoom.us/client/latest/zoom_amd64.deb

Then, run the following command to update Zoom:

sudo apt install ./zoom_amd64.deb

Snap Method to Update Zoom

If you installed Zoom using Snapcraft, you could update it using the following command in the terminal:

sudo snap refresh zoom-client

Flatpak Method to Update Zoom

If you installed Zoom with Flatpak initially, run the following command to check all Flatpak installations for updates comprehensively:

flatpak update

Remove Zoom

If you no longer need Zoom on your Ubuntu system, you can easily remove it using the following commands in the terminal:

APT Method to Remove Zoom

sudo apt remove zoom

Snap Method to Remove Zoom

sudo snap remove zoom-client

Flatpak Method to Remove Zoom

flatpak uninstall us.zoom.Zoom

Conclusion

With Zoom installed on your Ubuntu system using one of these methods, you can easily join and host meetings, collaborate with colleagues, and stay connected with friends and family. Whether you prefer the traditional .deb package installation, the simplicity of Snap, or the flexibility of Flatpak, each method ensures you have access to the latest Zoom features and updates. Regularly updating your Zoom installation will keep you equipped with the newest enhancements and security fixes, ensuring a smooth and secure video conferencing experience on Ubuntu.

Joshua James
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