Linuxbrew

Linuxbrew is a free, open-source package management system for Linux that mirrors the Homebrew experience on macOS. It runs in user space, enabling installation of software without requiring root access. Packages are installed into a separate prefix, typically /home/linuxbrew/.linuxbrew or ~/.linuxbrew, with the brew command managing installations and updates. Binaries are then available in the user’s PATH.

Linuxbrew uses formulae—text files describing how to fetch, build, and install a package—and taps, which are collections of formulae. The primary tap is homebrew-core. Users install packages via brew install, update via brew update, and manage dependencies automatically. Prebuilt binaries, known as bottles, speed up installations when available; otherwise sources are built from source.

Because it operates in user space, Linuxbrew can coexist with system package managers such as apt, dnf, or pacman. It relies on developer tools and a working compiler toolchain to build software. Some formulae depend on libraries provided by the host system, so users may need to install certain system packages to satisfy dependencies. Environment configuration, such as PATH and PKG_CONFIG_PATH, may require adjustment after installation.

History and status: Linuxbrew originated as a port of Homebrew to Linux to provide a familiar installation workflow for Linux users. Over time, development and maintenance have been integrated with Homebrew’s Linux support. As a result, many Linux users rely on Homebrew on Linux to obtain a macOS-like package management experience on their systems. See also Homebrew on Linux.