How to Install the Latest Ruby Version on AlmaLinux

How to Install the Latest Ruby Version on AlmaLinux

Ruby is a versatile, open-source programming language renowned for its simplicity and productivity. It powers popular frameworks like Ruby on Rails, making it a staple for developers building web applications. If you’re using AlmaLinux, installing the latest version of Ruby ensures you have access to the newest features, performance improvements, and security updates.

This guide will walk you through the process of installing the latest Ruby version on AlmaLinux. We’ll cover multiple methods, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and environment.

Why Install Ruby on AlmaLinux?

AlmaLinux, a popular Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) clone, provides a stable platform for deploying development environments. Ruby on AlmaLinux is essential for:

• Developing Ruby applications.
• Running Ruby-based frameworks like Rails.
• Automating tasks with Ruby scripts.
• Accessing Ruby’s extensive library of gems (pre-built packages).

Installing the latest version ensures compatibility with modern applications and libraries.

Prerequisites

Before starting, make sure your system is prepared:

1. A running AlmaLinux system: Ensure AlmaLinux is installed and up-to-date.

   sudo dnf update -y
   

2. Sudo or root access: Most commands in this guide require administrative privileges.

3. Development tools: Some methods require essential development tools like gcc and make. Install them using:

   sudo dnf groupinstall "Development Tools" -y
   

Method 1: Installing Ruby Using AlmaLinux DNF Repository

AlmaLinux’s default DNF repositories may not include the latest Ruby version, but they provide a stable option.

Step 1: Install Ruby from DNF

Use the following command to install Ruby:

sudo dnf install ruby -y

Step 2: Verify the Installed Version

Check the installed Ruby version:

ruby --version

If you need the latest version, proceed to the other methods below.

Method 2: Installing Ruby Using RVM (Ruby Version Manager)

RVM is a popular tool for managing multiple Ruby environments on the same system. It allows you to install and switch between Ruby versions effortlessly.

Step 1: Install RVM

1. Install required dependencies:

   sudo dnf install -y curl gnupg tar
   

2. Import the GPG key and install RVM:

   curl -sSL https://rvm.io/mpapis.asc | gpg2 --import -
   curl -sSL https://get.rvm.io | bash -s stable
   

3. Load RVM into your shell session:

   source ~/.rvm/scripts/rvm
   

Step 2: Install Ruby with RVM

To install the latest Ruby version:

rvm install ruby

You can also specify a specific version:

rvm install 3.2.0

Step 3: Set the Default Ruby Version

Set the installed version as the default:

rvm use ruby --default

Step 4: Verify the Installation

Check the Ruby version:

ruby --version

Method 3: Installing Ruby Using rbenv

rbenv is another tool for managing Ruby versions. It’s lightweight and straightforward, making it a good alternative to RVM.

Step 1: Install rbenv and Dependencies

1. Install dependencies:

   sudo dnf install -y git bzip2 gcc make openssl-devel readline-devel zlib-devel
   

2. Clone rbenv from GitHub:

   git clone https://github.com/rbenv/rbenv.git ~/.rbenv
   

3. Add rbenv to your PATH:

   echo 'export PATH="$HOME/.rbenv/bin:$PATH"' >> ~/.bashrc
   echo 'eval "$(rbenv init -)"' >> ~/.bashrc
   source ~/.bashrc
   

4. Install ruby-build:

   git clone https://github.com/rbenv/ruby-build.git ~/.rbenv/plugins/ruby-build
   

Step 2: Install Ruby Using rbenv

Install the latest Ruby version:

rbenv install 3.2.0

Set it as the global default version:

rbenv global 3.2.0

Step 3: Verify the Installation

Confirm the installed version:

ruby --version

Method 4: Compiling Ruby from Source

If you prefer complete control over the installation, compiling Ruby from source is an excellent option.

Step 1: Install Dependencies

Install the necessary libraries and tools:

sudo dnf install -y gcc make openssl-devel readline-devel zlib-devel

Step 2: Download Ruby Source Code

Visit the Ruby Downloads Page and download the latest stable version:

curl -O https://cache.ruby-lang.org/pub/ruby/3.2/ruby-3.2.0.tar.gz

Extract the tarball:

tar -xvzf ruby-3.2.0.tar.gz
cd ruby-3.2.0

Step 3: Compile and Install Ruby

1. Configure the build:

   ./configure
   

2. Compile Ruby:

   make
   

3. Install Ruby:

   sudo make install
   

Step 4: Verify the Installation

Check the installed version:

ruby --version

Installing RubyGems and Bundler

Once Ruby is installed, you’ll want to install RubyGems and Bundler for managing Ruby libraries and dependencies.

Install Bundler

Bundler is a tool for managing gem dependencies:

gem install bundler

Verify the installation:

bundler --version

Testing Your Ruby Installation

Create a simple Ruby script to ensure your installation is working:

1. Create a file called test.rb:

   nano test.rb
   

2. Add the following content:

   puts "Hello, Ruby on AlmaLinux!"
   

3. Run the script:

   ruby test.rb
   

You should see:

Hello, Ruby on AlmaLinux!

Conclusion

Installing the latest Ruby version on AlmaLinux can be achieved through multiple methods, each tailored to different use cases. The DNF repository offers simplicity but may not always have the latest version. Tools like RVM and rbenv provide flexibility, while compiling Ruby from source offers complete control.

With Ruby installed, you’re ready to explore its vast ecosystem of gems, frameworks, and tools. Whether you’re building web applications, automating tasks, or experimenting with programming, Ruby on AlmaLinux provides a robust foundation for your development needs.