What To Know
- While the official installer is the most straightforward way to get Discord on your system, there are times when you might need to update it manually using a `.
- The Discord download page usually provides a SHA-256 or MD5 hash for the downloaded file.
- Open a terminal and navigate to the directory where you downloaded the `.
Discord, the popular communication platform, is a staple for gamers, communities, and even workplaces. While the official installer is the most straightforward way to get Discord on your system, there are times when you might need to update it manually using a `.tar.gz` file. This method is particularly useful for advanced users, those who prefer granular control over their software, or those working in environments where the official installer is not available. This guide will walk you through the process of updating Discord using a `.tar.gz` file, covering everything from downloading the file to verifying its integrity.
Why Use a .tar.gz File?
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand why you might choose to update Discord with a `.tar.gz` file:
- Customization: You have complete control over where Discord is installed and how it’s configured.
- Offline Updates: You can download the update file beforehand and install it later, even without an internet connection.
- Server Environments: In server environments, administrators often use `.tar.gz` files for managing software updates.
- Troubleshooting: If you’re facing issues with the official installer, a manual update might resolve them.
Step 1: Download the .tar.gz File
The first step is to obtain the latest Discord `.tar.gz` file. Here’s how:
1. Visit the Discord Download Page: Navigate to the official Discord website and go to the downloads section.
2. Select the Linux Option: Look for the “Linux” option under the available operating systems.
3. Download the .tar.gz File: The download page will offer a `.tar.gz` file for your specific Linux distribution (e.g., Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora). Choose the correct file and download it.
Step 2: Verify the File Integrity
Before extracting and installing the update, it’s crucial to verify the downloaded file‘s integrity. This ensures that the file hasn‘t been corrupted during the download process. Here’s how to do it:
1. Use a Hashing Tool: You can use a hashing tool like `sha256sum` or `md5sum` available in most Linux distributions.
2. Check the Official Hash: The Discord download page usually provides a SHA-256 or MD5 hash for the downloaded file.
3. Compare the Hashes: Run the hashing tool on the downloaded `.tar.gz` file and compare the generated hash with the one provided by Discord. If they match, the file is valid.
Step 3: Extract the .tar.gz Archive
Now that you’ve verified the file, it’s time to extract the contents of the archive:
1. Use the `tar` Command: Open a terminal and navigate to the directory where you downloaded the `.tar.gz` file.
2. Extract the Archive: Run the following command:
“`bash
tar –xzvf discord-*.tar.gz
“`
Replace `discord-*.tar.gz` with the actual filename of the downloaded archive.
Step 4: Navigate to the Extracted Directory
After extraction, you’ll find a new directory containing the Discord update files. Navigate to this directory using the `cd` command in your terminal:
“`bash
cd discord-*
“`
Replace `discord-*` with the name of the extracted directory.
Step 5: Run the Installation Script
The extracted directory will contain an installation script. Run this script to install the Discord update.
“`bash
sudo ./discord-*.sh
“`
Replace `discord-*.sh` with the actual name of the installation script.
Step 6: Start Discord
Once the installation is complete, you can start Discord by typing the following command in your terminal:
“`bash
discord
“`
Going Beyond the Basics: Advanced Configuration
For advanced users, the `.tar.gz` method offers flexibility in customizing your Discord installation. You can choose a custom installation directory, modify the default settings, or even integrate Discord with your existing system services.
Wrapping Up: A Manual Update Done Right
Updating Discord with a `.tar.gz` file gives you a deeper level of control over the process. By understanding the steps involved and verifying the file integrity, you ensure a smooth and secure update experience. This method is particularly valuable for users who prefer custom installations or those working in environments where the official installer is not readily available.
Popular Questions
Q: What if the downloaded .tar.gz file is corrupt?
A: If the downloaded file is corrupt, you will likely encounter errors during the extraction or installation process. Verify the file’s integrity using a hashing tool and download a fresh copy if necessary.
Q: Can I update Discord from an older version using this method?
A: Yes, you can update Discord from an older version using a `.tar.gz` file. Just make sure to download the latest update file compatible with your current system.
Q: How do I uninstall Discord if I installed it using a .tar.gz file?
A: To uninstall Discord, you can delete the installation directory and remove any related configuration files. You might also need to remove any symbolic links or shortcuts created during installation.
Q: Is it safe to update Discord using a .tar.gz file?
A: Updating Discord using a `.tar.gz` file is safe as long as you download the file from the official Discord website and verify its integrity before installation. Always be cautious about downloading files from untrusted sources.
