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How to Install WINE on Ubuntu: Complete Guide

Learn how to install WINE on Ubuntu to natively run Windows programs on Linux. Quick guide to official repositories and WineHQ.

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How to Install WINE on Ubuntu: Complete Guide

WINE Installation Guide on Ubuntu #

Switching from Microsoft operating systems to Linux deployments often requires you to find alternatives that are valid for usual software. However, if you need to start a native program only available for Windows, the most performing and effective solution is to install WINE on Ubuntu.

What’s WINE? #

WINE (acronym for “Wine Is Not an Emulator”) is a famous level of open-source compatibility that allows Windows applications to run on Unix-like operating systems, such as Ubuntu. Unlike a virtual machine, WINE does not emulate the entire operating system: instead, it translates the API calls of Windows into standard POSIX calls in real time. 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 official Ubuntu repository #

  1. Open the System Terminal: Press the CTRL + ALT + T key combination.
  2. Check system architecture:
   lscpu

Check “Architecture” in the output to see if your hardware is 32-bit or 64-bit.

  1. 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
  1. Add 32-bit architecture (necessary for maximum compatibility):
   sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
  1. Download and add the encrypted Official WineHQ repository key:
   wget -nc https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/winehq.key
   sudo apt-key add winehq.key
  1. Determine the exact version of your operating system:
   grep RELEASE /etc/lsb-release
  1. 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'
  1. Update repository and install the stable version of WINE:
   sudo apt update
   sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-stable

Launch WINE on Ubuntu #

Once the installation is finished, you are ready to run your Windows applications natively. To start any .EXE file, 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, making the most of your work 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, as it allows you to perform .EXE files of Windows on Linux, you may theoretically perform malware designed for Microsoft platforms. We recommend downloading software exclusively from official sources and, in case of doubt, using a antivirus software to 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 performance of the operating system. 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 gaming community on Linux uses massively WINE (often enhanced by dedicated frontends such as Lutris or Steam Proton fork) 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 the official application database (AppDB) by WineHQ.

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