How to install SQLite on Ubuntu

When it comes to robust data management on Linux systems, SQLite stands out as a powerful, serverless database engine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing SQLite on Ubuntu, a popular Linux distribution known for its user-friendly interface and widespread use.

Why Choose SQLite on Ubuntu?

Ubuntu’s widespread adoption and user-friendly nature make it an ideal platform for efficient SQLite usage. Whether you’re managing data on a server or a desktop, Ubuntu’s stability and support community enhance the overall experience.

Prerequisites

Before we embark on the installation journey, ensure you have the following in place:

• A server or desktop running Ubuntu or any Debian-based distribution.
• Consider starting with a fresh OS install to avoid potential conflicts.
• SSH access to the server or open Terminal on your desktop.
• An active internet connection to download necessary packages.
• A non-root sudo user or access to the root user for security reasons.

Step-by-Step Guide: Installing SQLite on Ubuntu

Step 1: Update Your Package Database

Start by updating your package database to ensure you get the latest versions of packages. Open your terminal and enter:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install SQLite

• Via Ubuntu’s Package Manager (apt)

Install SQLite using:

sudo apt install sqlite3

Confirm the installation by typing ‘Y’ and pressing ‘Enter’ when prompted.

• Via APT for Additional Packages

In case additional packages are needed, install them with:

sudo apt-get install sqlite3 libsqlite3-dev

Step 3: Creating a Sample Database

Let’s put SQLite to the test by creating a simple database:

sqlite3

Within the SQLite prompt, enter the following commands:

CREATE TABLE students (id INTEGER PRIMARY KEY, name TEXT, age INTEGER);
INSERT INTO students (name, age) VALUES ('John Doe', 28);
INSERT INTO students (name, age) VALUES ('Jane Smith', 24);

Step 4: Basic SQLite Commands and Operations

Explore fundamental operations to manage your SQLite database efficiently:

• Select Data:

SELECT * FROM students;

• Update Data:

UPDATE students SET age = 29 WHERE name = 'John Doe';

• Delete Data:

DELETE FROM students WHERE name = 'Jane Smith';

• Exit SQLite:

Type .exit or press Ctrl+D to leave the SQLite prompt.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed and tested SQLite on your Ubuntu system.