How to Run Windows Applications on Ubuntu with Wine

Edited 2 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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A common challenge for users switching from Windows to Ubuntu is running Windows applications. These users may find that they need to give up their favorite applications, but here's the good news: you don't have to. With a compatibility layer called Wine, you can run many Windows applications on Ubuntu. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what Wine is, how it works, and follow step-by-step instructions so you can start using your Windows software on Ubuntu.

Understanding alcohol

Wine is a compatibility layer that lets you run Windows applications on Unix-like operating systems. It's not an emulator; instead, Wine converts Windows system calls to POSIX calls, making Windows applications run as if they were native Unix applications. This means you get better performance and integration than using an emulator, plus you don't need a Windows license.

Wine stands for "Wine Is Not an Emulator", which highlights its unique approach to application compatibility. It has been actively developed for several years, and thanks to the contributions of many developers around the world, it effectively supports a large number of Windows programs.

Installing Wine on Ubuntu

Before you can run Windows applications on Ubuntu, you need to install Wine. To do this, follow these steps:

Step 1: Enable 32-bit architecture

Wine requires 32-bit libraries to run 32-bit Windows applications. Open the terminal on Ubuntu and type the following command:

sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386

This command enables your system to fetch and install 32-bit packages.

Step 2: Add the Wine Repository

Next, you need to add the WineHQ repository. It provides the latest versions of Wine. Execute the following commands one by one in the terminal:

wget -nc https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/winehq.key
sudo apt-key add winehq.key
sudo add-apt-repository 'deb https://dl.winehq.org/wine-builds/ubuntu/ $(lsb_release -cs) main'

Step 3: Update the package list

After adding the repository, update the package list:

sudo apt update

Step 4: Install Wine

You can now install Wine. There are a few versions available:

• wine-stable: Stable, less frequent updates but more robust.
• wine-devel: Development release, suitable for beginner testers who want the latest features.
• Wine-Staging: This includes patches that are not yet in the stable release, often used for gaming.

Select your preferred version by running one of these commands:

sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-stable
sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-devel
sudo apt install --install-recommends winehq-staging

Configuring Wine

Once installed, you’ll need to configure Wine before you can use it to run applications.

Wine Configuration

To launch the Wine configuration tool, enter this command:

winecfg

This will open a graphical interface where you can configure settings such as Windows version compatibility. By default, it is set to Windows 7, but you can change it depending on application requirements. Winecfg also allows you to manage drives and libraries (DLLs) required by specific applications.

Running Windows Applications

After configuring Wine, running Windows applications is a straightforward process.

Step 1: Download the Windows Installer

First, download the Windows version of the software you want to run. This is usually an executable (.exe) or setup file.

Step 2: Install the app

Once downloaded, navigate to the file location and right-click on the installer. Select "Open with Wine Windows Program Loader" to begin the installation process. Wine will guide you through the installation as it does on Windows.

Step 3: Run the application

After installation, navigate to the program's installation directory, typically in your home folder, under ~/.wine/drive_c/Program Files . Double-click or right-click the application executable to launch it and select "Open with Wine Windows Program Loader".

You can also run it from the terminal:

wine /path/to/application.exe

Prevention of common alcohol-related problems

Not all Windows applications will run perfectly on Wine. Here are some common problems and ways to solve them:

Problem: missing DLL errors

Solution: Sometimes, you may get an error about a missing DLL. You can use the Wine configuration tool to add the required DLL override. Alternatively, install winetricks (Wine's helper script) with the following:

sudo apt install winetricks

Then, install the missing DLL using winetricks:

winetricks dlls

Problem: Application crashes or won't start

Solution: Make sure you are using the correct Windows version for the program via the Wine configuration tool. For specific guides on troublesome applications, check the Wine AppDB (an online database of Wine's compatibility results).

Problem: Application performance is poor

Solution: Enabling staging features of Wine may help. Install wine-staging package and enable necessary options like CSMT (Command Stream Multi-Threading) in WineCFG for better graphics performance.

Enhancing the Wine Experience

Once you have the basics down, you might want to move into advanced customizations or enhancements for Wine:

Using PlayOnLinux

PlayOnLinux is a front-end for Wine that simplifies installing and managing Windows applications. It provides scripts for many programs to ensure a consistent installation process.

Install it as follows:

sudo apt install playonlinux

After installation, run PlayOnLinux from your Applications menu and follow the GUI wizard to install and manage programs.

Integration with desktop environments

Wine allows integration into the Ubuntu desktop, providing launchers and menu items for installed applications. You can create desktop shortcuts or add programs to your Ubuntu app menu to make launching applications easier.

Conclusion

Wine is a powerful tool that effectively bridges the gap between Windows and Linux, enhancing the capabilities of Ubuntu users, allowing them to run their favorite Windows applications. With wide compatibility and active development, Wine continues to improve and expand its support. Whether you are making a full transition to Ubuntu or simply exploring it while using essential Windows applications, Wine stands out as a cornerstone resource to facilitate your journey. Experiment with different settings, stay updated with Wine releases, and visit the vast community resources if you encounter complex issues. Enjoy computing on Ubuntu!

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