How to install Discord on Linux Mint 20

Introduction

Discord has become an essential platform for communication, especially among gamers, tech enthusiasts, and various communities. Offering features like voice, video calls, and text messaging, it has transformed how individuals interact online. While Discord is widely used on Windows and macOS, Linux users might wonder how to install this popular app on their operating system, particularly on Linux Mint 20. This guide outlines step-by-step procedures for installing Discord on Linux Mint 20, catering to both newcomers and seasoned users.

Understanding Linux Mint 20

Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to understand what Linux Mint 20 is. Released in June 2020, Linux Mint 20 is a popular linux distribution based on Ubuntu. Known for its user-friendly interface and solid performance, Mint retains an active community that provides regular updates and support. The core components of Linux Mint include the Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce desktop environments, with Cinnamon being the flagship version.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s explore the steps for installing Discord on this versatile operating system.

Methods to Install Discord on Linux Mint 20

There are several methods to install Discord on Linux Mint 20. Each method has its advantages and may suit different types of users. Here, we will discuss three primary methods: using the official Discord website, the Snap package manager, and Flatpak.

Method 1: Installing Discord from the Official Website

Installing Discord from the official website is one of the most straightforward methods. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Downloading the Discord Package

1. Open your web browser.
2. Navigate to the Discord downloads page.
3. Click on the “Download for Linux” button. Choose the .deb version, which is compatible with Ubuntu-based distributions like Linux Mint.

Step 2: Installing the Package

After downloading the .deb file, you can install it using the terminal or a graphical package manager, such as GDebi or the built-in Software Manager.

Using Terminal:

1. Open the terminal (you can find it in the application menu).

2. Navigate to the directory where the file was downloaded, usually in the Downloads folder:
   bash
   cd ~/Downloads

3. Use the following command to install the package:
   bash
   sudo dpkg -i discord-*.deb

4. If there are dependency errors, resolve them by running:
   bash
   sudo apt-get install -f

Using GDebi:

1. Right-click on the downloaded .deb file.
2. Select “Open With GDebi Package Manager.”
3. Click the “Install Package” button.

Method 2: Installing Discord via Snap

Snap is a package management system that makes it easier to install and manage software across different Linux distributions seamlessly.

Step 1: Installing Snap

If Snap is not already installed on your system, you can do this easily. Open your terminal and run:
bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt install snapd

Step 2: Installing Discord using Snap

Once Snap is installed, you can proceed to install Discord:
bash
sudo snap install discord

This command will download and install Discord along with any required dependencies.

Step 3: Launching Discord

After installation, you can find Discord in your applications menu or launch it by running:
bash
discord

Method 3: Installing Discord via Flatpak

Flatpak is another package management system similar to Snap. It allows applications to run in isolated environments, making it secure and easy to use.

Step 1: Installing Flatpak

If Flatpak isn’t already installed on your Linux Mint, run the following command to install it:
bash
sudo apt install flatpak

Step 2: Enabling Flathub Repository

To install apps through Flatpak, you need to enable the Flathub repository:
bash
flatpak remote-add –if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Step 3: Installing Discord Using Flatpak

Now you can install Discord using the following command:
bash
flatpak install flathub com.discordapp.Discord

Step 4: Launching Discord

You can launch Discord either through your applications menu or by running:
bash
flatpak run com.discordapp.Discord

Verifying the Installation

Once you have installed Discord via any of the methods mentioned above, it’s time to verify whether the installation was successful. Launch Discord either through the terminal or application manager. If you see the login screen, congratulations! You have successfully installed Discord on your Linux Mint 20 system.

Configuring Discord

Before diving into conversations, it’s essential to customize various settings for a tailored experience:

Setting Up Your Profile

1. Click on the gear icon (User Settings) located at the bottom left corner next to your username.
2. Here you can modify your profile picture, change your username, and configure your privacy settings.

Configuring Voice and Video

Under the “Voice & Video” settings:

• Select your preferred input and output devices.
• Adjust the input sensitivity and enable or disable voice activity detection as per your needs.

Notifications

You can customize notifications to ensure you receive alerts that matter most to you, allowing you to manage your focus while using Discord.

Troubleshooting Installation Issues

While the installation process for Discord is generally smooth, you may encounter some problems. Here are some common issues and their resolutions:

Dependency Issues

If you see errors about missing dependencies when installing the .deb file, running:
bash
sudo apt-get install -f

should resolve the issue by installing any missing dependencies.

Snap/Flatpak Not Working

If you encounter issues with Snap or Flatpak:

• Ensure they are properly installed.
• Use commands like snap refresh or flatpak update to make sure all packages are updated.

Conclusion

Installing Discord on Linux Mint 20 can enhance your communication experience, whether you connect with friends in gaming or collaborate with colleagues on projects. Whether you choose to install it via the official website, Snap, or Flatpak, the process is straightforward and user-friendly.

After installation, take the time to explore the various features offered by Discord. The platform continuously evolves, and being familiar with its functionalities will help you make the most of your online interactions.

FAQ

1. Can I use Discord on Linux Mint 20 without installation?

Discord is primarily a desktop application, but you can also use it via a web browser. Simply navigate to Discord’s web application, log in, and you can access most of its features without downloading the software.

2. Is Discord resource-intensive on Linux Mint 20?

Discord is generally lightweight on Linux systems. However, running multiple applications simultaneously may impact performance. You can monitor your system’s resource usage via the system monitor.

3. Can I run Discord on other Linux distributions?

Yes, Discord is available on other Linux distributions as well. Since it’s packaged in different formats, users can utilize .deb, Snap, or Flatpak similarly across various distributions.

4. How can I uninstall Discord from Linux Mint 20?

To uninstall Discord, use the command appropriate to how you installed it:

• If installed via .deb:
  bash
  sudo apt remove discord

• If installed via Snap:
  bash
  sudo snap remove discord

• If installed via Flatpak:
  bash
  flatpak uninstall com.discordapp.Discord

5. Are there any alternatives to Discord for Linux Mint 20?

Yes, several alternatives exist, including applications like Slack, TeamSpeak, and Mumble that provide similar functionalities for team communication and online gatherings.

6. Is it safe to download Discord from third-party sources?

It’s always best to download software directly from the official website or trusted repositories. Installing from third-party sources may pose risks, including malware or outdated versions. Always verify the authenticity of the source before downloading.