Are you a Linux user looking for a way to use WhatsApp without constantly reaching for your phone? While there isn’t an official WhatsApp app for Linux, you can still install and run it easily with WhatsDesk, an Electron-based application that brings WhatsApp Web to your desktop. In this guide, I’ll show you how to set up WhatsApp on Linux using Snap, a universal package management system that makes installation simple across Linux distros.
Why Use Snap for Installing Apps on Linux?
Before diving into the installation, let’s talk about Snap and why it’s a great choice for Linux users. Snap is a cross-distro package manager developed by Canonical, allowing applications to run across different Linux distributions without compatibility issues. Snap packages automatically bundle dependencies, which means you get a seamless installation experience without missing library errors.
Benefits of Snap for Linux Users
- Universal Compatibility: Runs on most Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Arch.
- Automatic Updates: Snap keeps your applications up-to-date with minimal user intervention.
- Enhanced Security: Snap apps are sandboxed, which helps isolate each app for added security.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install WhatsApp on Linux with WhatsDesk via Snap
Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to set up WhatsApp on Linux using WhatsDesk.
Step 1: Install Snap (if it’s not installed)
Snap comes pre-installed on some Linux distributions, like Ubuntu. However, if it’s missing, you can easily install it:
# On Ubuntu/Debian-based systems
sudo apt update
sudo apt install snapd
# On Fedora
sudo dnf install snapd
sudo ln -s /var/lib/snapd/snap /snap
# On Arch-based systems
sudo pacman -S snapd
sudo systemctl enable --now snapd.socket
After installation, reboot if needed to ensure everything works smoothly.
Step 2: Install WhatsDesk Using Snap
Now, let’s install WhatsDesk, a desktop client that lets you use WhatsApp Web in a standalone application.
sudo snap install whatsdesk
This command downloads and installs WhatsDesk. Once complete, you’ll find it in your applications menu.
Step 3: Link WhatsDesk to Your WhatsApp Account
- Open WhatsDesk to display a QR code.
- Open WhatsApp on your mobile device and navigate to Settings > Linked Devices.
- Tap Link a Device and scan the QR code shown in WhatsDesk.
Congratulations! You can now use WhatsApp on your Linux desktop.
Important Note: WhatsDesk is Essentially WhatsApp Web in a Standalone App
Since WhatsDesk is an Electron-based wrapper, it’s essentially WhatsApp Web running as a standalone application. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- Lightweight and Easy to Use: There’s no complex setup—just scan and go.
- Standalone Application: No need to keep a browser tab open.
- Automatic Updates: With Snap, you always have the latest version without manual updates.
Cons
- Limited Features: Some WhatsApp features available on mobile might not work.
Final Thoughts on Using WhatsApp on Linux with WhatsDesk
Running WhatsApp on Linux is easier than ever, thanks to Snap and apps like WhatsDesk. This setup is ideal for Linux users who prefer a native-like experience without keeping a browser tab open. As Snap expands, more applications will become universally accessible, making Linux a more versatile OS.
If you’ve set up WhatsDesk for WhatsApp on Linux or have questions about Snap, drop a comment below! This guide should help you get the most out of WhatsApp on your Linux setup.
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