How to Install WINE on Ubuntu: Full Guide

WINE Installation Guide on Ubuntu

Moving from Microsoft operating systems to Linux distributions often requires you to find alternatives valid to usual software. However, if you need to start a native program only available forWindows, the most efficient and efficient solution isinstall WINE on Ubuntu.

What is WINE?

WINE(recurring acronym for “Wine Is Not an Emulator“) is a famous open-source compatibility level that allows Windows applications to run on Unix-like operating systems, such asUbuntu. Unlike a virtual machine, WINE does not emulate the entire operating system: instead, it translates Windows API calls into real timestandard POSIX calls. This approach ensures excellent performance and considerable savings in hardware resources.

The procedure for installing WINE is within reach of everyone thanks to pre-configured packages. Below you will find the official methods to complete the setup safely and quickly.

Installation of WINE on Ubuntu

The following instructions are valid for major distribution versions (such as Ubuntu 18.04, 20.04, 22.04 LTS and later). Choose the most suitable installation method for your needs.

Option 1: Use of Ubuntu official repository

Open the System Terminal:
Press the key combinationCTRL + ALT + T.
Check system architecture:

   lscpu

Check “Architecture” in the output to see if your hardware works32 bits or 64 bits.

Update packages and install WINE:

For 64-bit systems:
bash sudo apt update && sudo apt install wine64
For 32-bit systems:
bash sudo apt update && sudo apt install wine32

Option 2: Using WineHQ Repositories (Recommended)

Add 32-bit architecture (necessary for maximum compatibility):

   sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386

Download and add encrypted keyofficial WineHQ repository:

   wget -nc https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/winehq.key
   sudo apt-key add winehq.key

Determine the exact version of your operating system:

   grep RELEASE /etc/lsb-release

Add the appropriate repository according to the Ubuntu version:

For Ubuntu 19.04:
bash sudo apt-add-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ disco main'
For Ubuntu 18.10:
bash sudo apt-add-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ cosmic main'
For Ubuntu 18.04:
bash sudo apt-add-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ bionic main'
For Ubuntu 16.04:
bash sudo apt-add-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ xenial main'

Update the repository and install the stable version of WINE:

   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-stable

Start WINE on Ubuntu

Once the installation is finished, you are ready to run your Windows applications natively. To start any file. EXE, just type the following command inside the terminal:

wine nomeapplicazione.exe

This essential guide provided you with the tools needed to configure WINE in a clean and performing manner. Now you can enjoy your favorite Windows software directly on Linux, maximizing the potential of your working environment without weighing on system resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about WINE and Ubuntu

Is WINE safe to use on Ubuntu?

Yes,WINE is a safe and highly tested software. However, since it allows you to run files. EXEwindows on Linux, you may theoretically perform malware designed for Microsoft platforms. We advise you to download software exclusively from official sources and, in case of doubt, to use aantivirus softwareto scan executables before their installation.

WINE slows down the computer as a virtual machine?

Absolutely not. Being a simple translation level (compatibility layer) and not an emulator that recreates an entire hardware ecosystem,WINE does not weigh the operating system performance. Applications communicate almost natively with the Linux kernel, ensuring fluidity and a very low impact on RAM and CPU compared to virtualization solutions such as VirtualBox.

Can I install and play Windows video games with WINE?

Yes. The Linux gaming community uses massively WINE (often enhanced by dedicated frontends asLutrisor forkProtonsteam) to start the most famous native titles for Windows. To check in advance the compatibility and performance of a specific video game, we suggest you consult theofficial application database (AppDB) by WineHQ.