6 Ways Run Linux Software on Mac: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Running Linux Software on Mac: 6 Comprehensive Methods

Running Linux software on a Mac can be a powerful way to leverage the strengths of both operating systems. Here are six methods to achieve this, each with detailed steps and considerations.

1. Using the MacPorts Package Manager

MacPorts is a community-driven package manager that simplifies the process of compiling, installing, and upgrading open-source software on your Mac. Here’s how to use it:

Install Xcode Command Line Tools: Open Terminal and run xcode-select --install to install the necessary tools.
Download and Install MacPorts: Follow the Quick Start guide to download and install MacPorts. The installer will guide you through the process.
Find and Install Linux Software: Visit the MacPorts website to find the port of the Linux software you want. Copy the installation command and paste it into Terminal, then press Return and enter your admin password.

2. Setting Up Homebrew on Your Mac

Homebrew is another package manager that allows you to install Linux software on your Mac. Here’s how to set it up:

Install Homebrew: Open Terminal and run the installation script from the Homebrew website.
Install Linux Tools: Use Homebrew to install any Linux tools you need. For example, you can install Docker or other development tools by running brew install <package-name>.

3. Virtualizing Linux Using Virtual Machines

Virtualizing Linux allows you to run a full Linux environment within your Mac. Here are a few options:

Using UTM: Download and install UTM from the App Store or its website. Create a new virtual machine and select the Linux distribution you want to install. For example, you can download the latest LTS version of Ubuntu Desktop for ARM64 and Alpine Linux for aarch64.
- Steps to Install with UTM:
  - Download the ISO bundle of your preferred Linux distribution.
  - Open UTM and create a new virtual machine.
  - Select the ISO file and follow the installation prompts.
  - Configure your virtual machine settings as needed.
Using Parallels Desktop: If you prefer a more commercial solution, Parallels Desktop is a robust option. It supports running various operating systems, including Linux, on your Mac.

4. Running Any Linux Distribution with Lima

Lima is a lightweight tool for running Linux virtual machines on Mac. Here’s how to set it up:

Install Lima: Use Homebrew to install Lima by running brew install lima.
Start the VM: Run limactl start default to start the default VM.
Access the VM: Run lima to get a shell inside the VM. By default, Lima mounts your home directory as read-only inside the VM.

5. Installing Asahi Linux Alongside macOS

Asahi Linux is a community-driven effort to port Linux to Apple Silicon. While it is still in development, it offers a promising way to run Linux natively on newer Macs:

Check Compatibility: Ensure your Mac model is compatible with Asahi Linux.
Download and Install: Follow the instructions on the Asahi Linux website to download and install the distribution.

6. Building Linux Software from Scratch

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or need specific software that isn’t available through other means, you can build it from scratch:

Locate Source Code: Find the source code of the Linux software you want to install.
Install Command Line Tools: Ensure you have the necessary command line tools installed.
Extract and Build: Extract the source code, read the documentation, and run the ./configure, make, and sudo make install commands to build and install the software.

Each of these methods offers a unique way to run Linux software on your Mac, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you choose to use package managers, virtual machines, or build software from scratch, you can effectively leverage the power of Linux within your macOS environment.