A common method for distributing software source code and pre-compiled binaries on Linux systems involves the use of `.tar.gz` archives. These archives, often referred to as “tarballs,” are created using the `tar` utility (for creating a tape archive) followed by compression using `gzip`. The resulting file contains a collection of files and directories bundled together and compressed to reduce file size, facilitating easier distribution and storage. Installing software from such an archive generally involves extracting its contents and then, depending on the software, running a configuration and compilation process.
The prevalence of these compressed archives stems from their platform independence and ease of creation. They offer a convenient way to package software, allowing developers to distribute their programs without relying on specific package managers. Historically, this method provided a uniform distribution mechanism across various Linux distributions. Although modern package managers such as `apt` and `yum` offer streamlined installation processes, these archives remain essential when dealing with software not available in standard repositories or when requiring specific versions or custom configurations. The ability to work with these files is a fundamental skill for Linux users.
