Snap, a universal packaging system from Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has been a topic of debate in the Linux community. While it offers some significant advantages, such as simplified software installation and automatic updates, it has also been met with resistance. Here are some reasons why some Linux users refuse to use Snap.
Proprietary Backend
One of the main criticisms of Snap is that its backend is proprietary and controlled by Canonical. This means that if you want to distribute snaps, you have to set up an account with Canonical and host it there. This has led to concerns about centralization and control, as it goes against the decentralized nature of open-source software development.
Performance Issues
Another common complaint about Snap packages is their performance. Snaps are often slower to install, slower to start, and use more RAM and disk space than traditional packages. This is because Snap packages contain all the dependencies needed for the software to run, which increases their size and can slow down their operation.
Auto-updates
Snap packages auto-update themselves without asking the user. While this can be seen as a benefit in terms of keeping software up-to-date, it can also be a disadvantage. For example, an automatic update could potentially break a working system or use up bandwidth without the user’s knowledge.
System Integration
Snaps do not always respect system settings and can be restricted compared to their non-snap counterparts. This can lead to inconsistencies in the user experience and limit the functionality of the software.
Community Adoption
Community adoption of Snap has been mixed. Some Linux distributions still prefer to use existing packaging formats (e.g., DEB and RPM) and package managers (e.g., APT and DNF) or their alternative, Flatpak. This can lead to fragmentation and confusion among users.
Snap has its advantages, these issues have led some Linux users to refuse to use it. It’s important to note that these are not inherent flaws in the Snap system, but rather concerns that have been raised by the community. As with any technology, it’s essential to understand its strengths and weaknesses to make an informed decision about whether to use it.
References:
- What’s wrong with snaps, why so many people hate it? : r/linux (reddit.com)
- https://www.reddit.com/r/linuxquestions/comments/gyt88d/snaps_why_are_they_so_controversial_and_how_do/
- https://www.makeuseof.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-snap-and-snap-store/
- https://linuxtldr.com/canonical-snap/
- https://hackaday.com/2020/06/24/whats-the-deal-with-snap-packages/
