How To Install nvidia-cuda-toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04

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Introduction

Before we begin talking about how to install nvidia-cuda-toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04 OS, let’s briefly understand – What is nvidia-cuda-toolkit?

The nvidia-cuda-toolkit accelerates applications using nvidia GPUs. By harnessing the immense computing power of GPUs, developers can create high-performance applications for scientific simulations, machine learning, and data analysis.

It provides a comprehensive set of libraries, tools, and compilers, enabling developers to write efficient parallel code easily. With cuda, developers can unlock the full potential of GPUs to deliver faster and more complex computations, revolutionizing various industries including healthcare, finance, and entertainment.

You’ll install nvidia-cuda-toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04 in this tutorial. Also, we will answer some FAQs related to nvidia-cuda-toolkit installation.

Advantages of nvidia-cuda-toolkit

  1. Massive Performance Boost: nvidia-cuda toolkit utilizes the immense computing power of GPUs, dramatically accelerating applications in areas like scientific simulations, AI, and data analytics.
  2. Parallel Processing: Developers can easily write efficient parallel code using cuda, unlocking the full potential of GPUs and enabling faster data processing.
  3. Comprehensive Toolset: The toolkit provides a wide range of libraries, tools, and compilers, making it easier for developers to optimize and enhance their applications.
  4. Cross-Platform Compatibility: cuda supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, ensuring broad accessibility and compatibility for developers.
  5. Industry-Ready Applications: With cuda, various industries can benefit from faster and more complex computations, revolutionizing sectors like healthcare, finance, and entertainment.

Installing nvidia-cuda-toolkit Via apt-get

Use the following command to use apt-get to upgrade the apt database.

sudo apt-get update

The following command can be used to install nvidia-cuda-toolkit using apt-get after refreshing the apt database:

sudo apt-get -y install nvidia-cuda-toolkit

Installing nvidia-cuda-toolkit Via apt

Use the command below to update the apt database.

sudo apt update

The following command can be used to install nvidia-cuda-toolkit using apt after the apt database has been updated:

sudo apt -y install nvidia-cuda-toolkit

Installing nvidia-cuda-toolkit Via aptitude

Aptitude is typically not installed by default on Ubuntu, so if you wish to use this approach, you may need to install it first. Use the command below to upgrade the aptitude database for apt.

sudo aptitude update

The following command can be used to install nvidia-cuda-toolkit using aptitude after refreshing the apt database:

sudo aptitude -y install nvidia-cuda-toolkit

How To Uninstall nvidia-cuda-toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04

The following command can be used to just uninstall the nvidia-cuda-toolkit package:

sudo apt-get remove nvidia-cuda-toolkit

Uninstall nvidia-cuda-toolkit Along With Its Dependencies

The following command can be used to remove nvidia-cuda-toolkit and its dependencies that Ubuntu 20.04 no longer requires:

sudo apt-get -y autoremove nvidia-cuda-toolkit

Remove nvidia-cuda-toolkit Settings and Data

The following command can be used to remove the nvidia-cuda-toolkit settings and data from Ubuntu 20.04:

sudo apt-get -y purge nvidia-cuda-toolkit

Remove the nvidia-cuda-toolkit configuration, data, and all of its dependencies

To remove any configurations, data, and dependencies associated with the nvidia-cuda-toolkit, issue the following command:

sudo apt-get -y autoremove --purge nvidia-cuda-toolkit

FAQs to Install nvidia-cuda-toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04

What are the system requirements for installing CUDA Toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04? 

The requirements include a supported NVIDIA GPU, a compatible version of Ubuntu (like 20.04), and the necessary system drivers.

Can I install CUDA Toolkit without an NVIDIA GPU?

No, CUDA Toolkit requires an NVIDIA GPU as it harnesses GPU's parallel processing capabilities.

How can I verify if CUDA Toolkit is successfully installed on Ubuntu 20.04? 

Open a terminal and run the command nvcc --version. If the output shows the CUDA version, it means the installation was successful.

How do I update the CUDA Toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04? 

To update CUDA Toolkit, download the latest version from NVIDIA's website and follow the installation steps again.

Can I have multiple CUDA Toolkit versions installed on Ubuntu 20.04?

 Yes, you can have multiple versions installed, but you need to ensure that you set up the environmental variables correctly for each version.

Are there any known issues with CUDA Toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04? 

It's recommended to check NVIDIA's release notes and user forums for any known issues or conflicts with specific hardware configurations.

Where can I find additional resources and support for NVIDIA CUDA Toolkit on Ubuntu 20.04? 

Visit NVIDIA's official website for CUDA Toolkit documentation, developer forums, and resources for troubleshooting and community support.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to install the nvidia-cuda-toolkit package on Ubuntu 20.04 using several package management tools such as apt, apt-get, and aptitude.

If you have any queries or doubts, please leave them in the comment below. We'll be happy to address them.