How to Install Miniconda on Ubuntu 24.04 (Step by step guide)

Miniconda is a lightweight distribution of Conda that allows you to manage Python versions and virtual environments efficiently. Unlike Anaconda, Miniconda installs only the core Conda packages, giving you full control over what gets installed later.

In this guide, you will learn how to install Miniconda on Ubuntu 24.04, verify the installation, and start managing Python environments like a pro.

What Is Miniconda?

Miniconda is a minimal installer for Conda, a popular package and environment management system. It is widely used by developers, data scientists, and DevOps engineers who want a clean and flexible Python setup.

Key Benefits of Miniconda

• Lightweight and fast installation
• Easy management of multiple Python versions
• Isolated environments for different projects
• Ideal for servers and development machines

Prerequisites

Before installing Miniconda on Ubuntu 24.04, make sure you have:

• Ubuntu 24.04 (Desktop or Server)
• A non-root user with sudo privileges
• Internet connection
• Basic knowledge of Linux commands

Step 1: Update the System

Always start by updating your system packages to ensure compatibility and security.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Download the Miniconda Installer

Visit the official Miniconda website and download the latest Linux installer.
Alternatively, you can use wget from the terminal.

wget https://repo.anaconda.com/miniconda/Miniconda3-latest-Linux-x86_64.sh

💡 Tip: For ARM-based systems, download the appropriate installer matching your architecture.

Step 3: Verify the Installer (Optional but Recommended)

Verifying the installer ensures file integrity and security.

sha256sum Miniconda3-latest-Linux-x86_64.sh

Compare the output with the checksum provided on the official Miniconda website.

Step 4: Run the Miniconda Installer

Make the installer executable and start the installation process.

bash Miniconda3-latest-Linux-x86_64.sh

During the installation:

• Press Enter to review the license
• Type yes to accept the license terms
• Choose the installation path (default is recommended)
• Allow the installer to initialize Miniconda

Step 5: Initialize Conda

After installation, activate Conda by restarting your terminal or running:

source ~/.bashrc

Verify that Conda is installed correctly:

conda --version

You should see the installed Conda version displayed.

Step 6: Update Conda

It is best practice to update Conda immediately after installation.

conda update -n base -c defaults conda

Step 7: Create a Python Environment

Miniconda shines when managing isolated Python environments.

Create a New Environment

conda create --name myenv python=3.12

Activate the Environment

conda activate myenv

Deactivate the Environment

conda deactivate

Step 8: Install Packages Using Conda

You can install packages easily using Conda.

conda install numpy pandas matplotlib

For packages not available in Conda repositories, use pip:

pip install requests

Miniconda vs Anaconda

Feature	Miniconda	Anaconda
Installer Size	Small	Very Large
Preinstalled Packages	Minimal	250+
Customization	High	Limited
Best For	Servers, DevOps, Clean Setup	Data Science Beginners

Uninstalling Miniconda (Optional)

If you need to remove Miniconda completely:

rm -rf ~/miniconda3

Then remove Conda initialization from .bashrc:

nano ~/.bashrc

Delete the Conda-related lines and save the file.

Best Practices for Using Miniconda

• Use one environment per project
• Avoid installing packages in the base environment
• Regularly update Conda
• Export environments for reproducibility

conda env export > environment.yml

Conclusion

Installing Miniconda on Ubuntu 24.04 is a smart choice for anyone who needs a clean, flexible, and efficient Python environment. With Miniconda, you can easily manage dependencies, switch Python versions, and keep your system organized.

Whether you are a developer, data scientist, or system administrator, Miniconda provides a powerful foundation for your Python workflows.