How to Install Ruby on Linux

Ruby is a dynamic, open-source programming language with a strong community and plenty of real-world use. If you’re getting into web development, automation, or scripting, Ruby is a great skill to have. Here’s how to install Ruby on Linux in a few straightforward steps.

Method 1: Install Ruby Using Your Linux Package Manager

This is the quickest way to get Ruby up and running, but you might not get the absolute latest version.

For Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install ruby-full

For Fedora:

sudo dnf install ruby

For CentOS/RHEL:

sudo yum install ruby

After installation, check your Ruby version:

ruby -v

Method 2: Install Ruby Using a Version Manager

If you want more control—especially if you need multiple Ruby versions—use a version manager like RVM or rbenv.

Install Ruby with RVM

1. Install GPG Keys:
   sudo apt update

sudo apt install curl gpg

curl -sSL https://rvm.io/mpapis.asc | gpg --import -

curl -sSL https://rvm.io/pkuczynski.asc | gpg --import -
2. Install RVM:
   curl -sSL https://get.rvm.io | bash -s stable

source ~/.rvm/scripts/rvm
3. Install Ruby:
   rvm install ruby

rvm use ruby --default
4. Verify Installation:
   ruby -v

Install Ruby with rbenv

1. Install dependencies:
   sudo apt update

sudo apt install git curl libssl-dev libreadline-dev zlib1g-dev
2. Install rbenv and ruby-build:
   git clone https://github.com/rbenv/rbenv.git ~/.rbenv

cd ~/.rbenv && src/configure && make -C src

echo 'export PATH="$HOME/.rbenv/bin:$PATH"' >> ~/.bashrc

echo 'eval "$(rbenv init -)"' >> ~/.bashrc

source ~/.bashrc

git clone https://github.com/rbenv/ruby-build.git ~/.rbenv/plugins/ruby-build
3. Install Ruby:
   rbenv install 3.3.0 # Replace with latest version

rbenv global 3.3.0
4. Check Version:
   ruby -v

Troubleshooting

• If the terminal says ruby: command not found, close and reopen your terminal or run source ~/.bashrc.
• If installation fails, check for missing dependencies and install them using your package manager.
• For Ubuntu, always run sudo apt update before installing new packages.

Wrapping Up

That’s it! You’ve got Ruby running on your Linux machine. Whether you use your package manager or a version manager, you’re now set up to start developing with Ruby. If you hit any issues, check the official Ruby documentation for deeper troubleshooting.

Ready to code? Fire up IRB with irb and start experimenting!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!