How do I use the ./configure command in terminal?

Question

Hello, In Linux when I need to install programs I'm not sure how to use the ./configure command. When I get to the step were I need to use ./configure I just enter ./configure and it says it dosent recognize the command. Do I have to add any other bits to the command or say what kernel I'm using? All the previous steps work I just need to know how to use it.

GregLee · Answer

Your current directory has to have a file named "configure" and it has to be executable. Then it should work.

To find out whether there is a file "configure" in your current directory, type "ls", and examine the list of files you see on the screen. If "configure" is there, type "ls -l configure" to see whether it is executable --- the 3rd column of the long listing has "x" if it is.

If there is no "configure" file in your current directory, look for a directory that has one. To see what directory you're in, type "pwd". To change directories, type "cd".

Greg

jrittvo · Answer

And configure is not a step in every program build. Sometimes, you just need to do make and make install, and sometimes just make and then manually copy a file or two to a final location and change them to being executable. Check the instructions each time for building each program.

jamie_3033 · Answer

thnx  for the help!!  its helped alot.

Linux General

How do I use the ./configure command in terminal?

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