How do I install the ubuntu-restricted-extras package?

Question

I would like to install the restricted extras package, which I didn't select during the install. How can I do that?

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ubuntu-restricted-extras is a meta-package that installs:

• Support for MP3 and unencrypted DVD playback
• Microsoft TrueType core fonts
• Flash plugin
• codecs for common audio and video files

Solution 1

First, be warned that it might not be legal in some countries, because of software patents.

With that being said, here is how to install it, click here:

ubuntu-restricted-extras

Or you can open up a terminal and run the following command:

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras

Select yes, and you'll have ubuntu-restricted-extras installed and working.

Solution 2

I suggest to install Ubuntu Restricted Extras through Ubuntu Software Center. It will install all media codecs plus java and flash plugins.

Well I think you need to enable multiverse on Software and Updates (if you use Ubuntu 12.04, you can access software properties or something like that from Ubuntu Software Center > Edit menu)

Then close the Software Center and open Software Updater (Update Manager on 12.04) to update the package lists. Alternatively you can run sudo apt-get update from Terminal.

After update got completed, open Software Center again and look for Ubuntu restricted extras to install.

If you still can’t find the package, try sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras from a Terminal and see if it results in an error.

Solution 3

Just click this link to apt repository.

Or go to software centre and install Ubuntu-restricted-extras

Or use apt-get, type in terminal

sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install ubuntu-restricted-extras

Comments

[vincent]

I've found the software center but cannot find the icon for Ubuntu retstricted extras?

[TrailRider]

@vincent There is no icon just for this it is just a box of tools that is the generic icon for system tools. you can find it by searching for it by name in the text box in the upper right of the Software Center. If you want to find theses ind of things without knowing their complete name you need to click the bottom left where it says "Show xx Technical Items" to show the hidden items that are usually this kind of software.

[AliN]

@vincent, as TrailRider mentioned, Ubuntu restricted extras is not an app so there’s no icon for it in Dash or somewhere, you need to search for it inside Ubuntu Software Center. I just edited my answer to add screenshots and more information. I hope it will help.

[AliN]

@TrailRider thanks a lot, but I think it will be excellent if it can help the question owner. ;)

[nicolimo86]

it doesn't work on ubuntu 18.04

[RufusVS]

@nicolimo86 That's the version I wanted to do it with too.