I'm trying to figure out how to keep all my software updated since I've had to install programs using various methods due to compatibility issues. So far, I've used Snaps, Apt, Flatpak, Curl, Discover (KDE), chmod for AppImages, and Deb files. With all these different installation methods, how can I ensure everything stays up to date? Not all the software I use supports the same installers, making it tricky.
3 Answers
To simplify things, try to limit the number of installation methods you use. The fewer places you have to update software from, the easier it will be to manage. Stick to one or two reliable methods if you can.
You can actually manage updates pretty well by using Discover, which supports Snaps, Flatpaks, and Apt. So you could just update everything through there or use the respective commands for each package manager. That said, for installs using Curl, you're on your own unless the software itself has an update process — you'll need to check its documentation. For programs like oh-my-zsh, they automatically check for updates when you use the terminal.
In Ubuntu, both Snaps and Apt are handled by the package manager, so when you run `sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade`, they should update automatically. It's best to avoid using Curl for installations whenever possible. AppImages, on the other hand, are a bit more complicated. They're portable, so just keep them in one place and run them directly — remember, `chmod +x` merely makes them executable; it doesn't install them.
Definitely, keeping track of those Curl installs can be tough. They’re risky since you take full responsibility for updates. It’s a good idea to maintain a list somewhere, maybe in your home directory, to remind yourself of all the manual installations you have to upkeep.