How to install packages on Ubuntu behind a Proxy Server?

-Akshay Ranganath

While working behind a proxy, the normal

sudo apt-get install 

may not work. This is because of the command line interface does not detect the proxy settings. To ensure a smooth installation without unnecessary hassles of digging through the settings, using the UI based approach is a lot more easier.

5 steps to setup Synaptics Package Manager for a proxy based network

1. Open the Synaptic Package Manager by choosing System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager in the menu.


2. Provide password for the application to start


3. Set the proxy settings by using the following menu: Settings > Preferences > Network


4. Now provide the proxy details for both HTTP and FTP along with the port number.
   
   
   


5. Click apply and the Synaptics Manager is now ready to download and install packages.

5 steps to installing packages

Once the proxy setting is done, packages can be installed in a very simple manner.

1. Click on Search button on top


2. In the search box, choose the package to install. In the screen shot I've given Wordpress.
   
   
   


3. Click OK and a result is displayed. Choose the application you are interested in by clicking on the checkbox. Here, you will get a drop down with an option to Mark for installation (you can even choose to uninstall/reinstall/upgrade). Choose this option. Automatically, the package manager will choose all the dependencies to be installed along with the application.
   
   
   


4. The Apply button on top will now be enabled. You can go with search and choose as many other packages as you want to install.
   
   
   
   


5. Click on the Apply button and the packages will be downloaded and installed.

And that's about it - you are on your way to install and upgrade packages easily on Ubuntu!