How to Use Wine on Linux?

Running Windows applications on Linux has always been a challenge for users who need both operating systems' functionalities. Fortunately, Wine, a powerful compatibility layer, allows you to run Windows apps natively on Linux without the need for a virtual machine or dual booting. Whether you need to use a Windows-exclusive program or a favourite game, Wine makes it possible to run these applications directly from your Linux desktop. This guide will show you how to run Windows apps on Linux using Wine, with a step-by-step approach to installation and configuration.

What is Wine?

Wine is a program that allows you to run Windows software on your Linux computer. Linux is a different kind of operating system than Windows. Normally, programs made for Windows cannot work directly on Linux. Wine acts like a translator between the Windows program and your Linux system. It tricks the Windows program into thinking it is running on a Windows computer. This way, you can install and use many Windows programs and games right on your Linux machine, without needing a Windows operating system. Wine is free and open-source software. It makes it possible to use Windows applications on Linux without having to pay for a Windows license.

Uses of Wine

• Run Windows programs on Linux: The primary use of Wine is to allow you to run software designed for Windows on your Linux operating system. This lets you access Windows-only programs without having to actually install Windows.
• Use favorite Windows apps: With Wine, you can keep using your preferred Windows applications and games after switching to Linux. No need to find Linux alternatives.
• No Windows license needed: Wine enables running Windows programs on Linux without purchasing a Windows operating system license. This saves money.
• Test Windows software: Developers can use Wine to test how their Windows programs run on Linux systems before releasing them officially for Linux.
• Play Windows games: Many popular Windows games, both old and new, can be played on Linux by using Wine to run the game's Windows version.
• Access legacy Windows software: Wine allows using older, legacy Windows software that may no longer work well on newer Windows versions.

Installation of the Wine in Linux

Step 1: Check your computer's architecture

You need to know if your Linux is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version. This is important because you'll need to install the right Wine version for your system. To check your computer's architecture use the below command.

Command:

lscpu

Output:

Step 2: Update your system

To get the latest software updates, you need to update the software repository on your Linux computer. Type the below command to update the system.

Command:

sudo apt update

Output:

Step 3: Install the Wine

After updating your system, you need to install the Wine program itself. The command you use depends on whether your Linux is 32-bit or 64-bit.

Command:

For 64-bit Linux systems use the below command :

sudo apt install wine64

For 32-bit Linux systems use the below command :

sudo apt install wine32

Output:

Type y to confirm the installation. When prompted to enter the "y" or "n" and press "y" to confirm the wine installation.

Setting up the Wine Windows environment

After installing Wine, you need to create a Windows home directory for it to run Windows programs. To do that Enter the following command in the terminal and then wine configuration menu will pop up select the Windows version according to your system. Check the Step 1 of the Installing the wine.

Command:

winecfg

Output:

Installing a Program using Wine

Step 1: Download a Windows program

Now you need to get the Windows program you want to run on your Linux system. Go to the official website of the Windows program you want to use. Look for the download section. Download the installation file in either ".exe" or ".msi" format. These are the types of installation files Windows uses.

You can check the Wine website (https://www.winehq.org) to see a big list of Windows programs that are known to work well with Wine.

Step 2: Switch to Downloads Directory

After downloading the Windows program installer file (.exe or .msi), you need to go to the Downloads folder to access it. To go to the Downloads directory use the below command.

Command:

cd Downloads

Step 3: Installing the Program

Now that you are in the Downloads folder, you can run the Windows installer file using Wine. Then in the terminal type the below with your program name.

Command:

wine (Program_Name)

Output:

Conclusion

By installing and configuring Wine, you can seamlessly run many Windows apps on your Linux system without the need for virtualization. This powerful tool allows users to take advantage of Windows-only programs while staying within the Linux environment. Whether you’re using Linux for work, gaming, or development, Wine opens up new possibilities for cross-platform compatibility. Following the steps in this guide, you’ll have your Windows apps running on Linux in no time. For advanced features or app-specific tweaks, remember to explore the Wine community for further assistance.