How To Install Figma on AlmaLinux 10
Figma has revolutionized collaborative design workflows for UI/UX professionals worldwide. While official Linux support remains absent from Figma’s roadmap, the open-source community has stepped up to bridge this gap. AlmaLinux 10, the enterprise-grade RHEL-compatible distribution, provides an excellent foundation for running Figma through community-maintained solutions. This comprehensive guide walks through multiple installation methods, configuration steps, and troubleshooting techniques to get Figma running smoothly on AlmaLinux 10.
Understanding Figma and AlmaLinux 10 Compatibility
What is Figma-Linux?
Figma-Linux represents the community’s answer to the absence of official Linux support. Built on the Electron framework, this desktop application wraps Figma’s web interface into a native-feeling application. The GitHub-hosted project has gained significant traction among Linux designers who require offline capabilities and local font access. Unlike browser-based workflows, Figma-Linux integrates seamlessly with the operating system, providing superior font rendering, native notifications, and better resource management.
The application maintains feature parity with Figma’s web version while adding Linux-specific enhancements. These improvements include direct filesystem integration, system-wide keyboard shortcuts, and optimized memory handling for resource-constrained environments.
Why AlmaLinux 10?
AlmaLinux 10 emerged as a leading enterprise Linux distribution following CentOS’s transition. Released in May 2025, this RHEL-compatible system offers long-term support, enterprise-grade stability, and comprehensive package repositories. The distribution uses DNF (Dandified YUM) as its primary package manager, simplifying software installation and dependency resolution. For developers and designers working in enterprise environments, AlmaLinux provides the reliability required for production workflows while maintaining compatibility with the broader RHEL ecosystem.
Prerequisites and System Requirements
AlmaLinux 10 System Requirements
Before proceeding with Figma installation, ensure the system meets minimum specifications. AlmaLinux 10 requires a 64-bit x86_64 processor architecture. Memory requirements start at 1 GB, though 2 GB RAM is recommended for comfortable multitasking. Storage needs vary, but allocating 10-20 GB ensures adequate space for the operating system, applications, and design files.
AlmaLinux 10 supports multiple architectures including x86-64, x86-64-v2, and ARM64. However, Figma-Linux currently provides optimized builds primarily for x86_64 systems. ARM64 support exists but may require building from source.
Figma-Linux Requirements
The Figma desktop client needs an active internet connection for initial authentication and file synchronization. A modern web browser handles OAuth authentication during first-time setup. Administrative privileges (sudo access) are mandatory for system-wide installation. The application requires several shared libraries that DNF resolves automatically during RPM installation.
Required Dependencies
System updates should be current before installing third-party applications. The DNF package manager comes pre-installed on AlmaLinux 10, handling repository management and dependency resolution. Optional components include the EPEL repository for expanded package availability and Snap daemon for alternative installation methods.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Update Your AlmaLinux 10 System
Begin by refreshing system packages. Open the terminal and execute:
sudo dnf update -y
This command synchronizes package databases and installs available updates. The -y
flag automatically confirms installation prompts. System updates include security patches, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements that prevent installation conflicts.
Verify the current AlmaLinux version:
cat /etc/almalinux-release
This displays the installed AlmaLinux release, confirming version 10.x compatibility.
Install Required Development Tools
Enable the EPEL repository to access additional packages:
sudo dnf install epel-release -y
EPEL (Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux) provides community-maintained packages not included in standard repositories. Install essential utilities:
sudo dnf install wget curl tar -y
These tools facilitate file downloads and archive extraction during manual installation procedures.
Verify System Architecture
Confirm 64-bit architecture compatibility:
uname -m
The output should display x86_64
. This architecture matches Figma-Linux’s primary build target, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility.
Method 1: Installing Figma-Linux Using RPM Package (Recommended)
Downloading the RPM Package
The RPM installation method offers the most seamless experience for AlmaLinux users. Navigate to the Figma-Linux GitHub releases page to identify the latest stable version. Download the RPM package directly:
wget https://github.com/Figma-Linux/figma-linux/releases/download/v0.11.5/figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_amd64.deb
Replace the version number with the current release. The wget utility downloads files from remote servers while displaying progress information. Verify the download completed successfully:
ls -lh figma-linux*.rpm
This lists the downloaded RPM file with human-readable size information.
Installing via DNF Package Manager
DNF provides superior dependency management compared to direct RPM commands. Install the downloaded package:
sudo dnf install ./figma-linux_0.11.4_linux_amd64.rpm -y
The ./
prefix instructs DNF to treat the argument as a local file rather than a repository package. DNF automatically resolves and installs required dependencies from configured repositories. During installation, DNF may prompt to import GPG keys for package verification. Accept these prompts to proceed.
Monitor installation output for error messages. Successful installation concludes with a “Complete!” message. The application integrates into the system menu automatically, creating desktop entries and file associations.
Alternative installation using the rpm command directly:
sudo rpm -ivh figma-linux_0.11.4_linux_amd64.rpm
The -i
flag installs the package, -v
provides verbose output, and -h
displays hash marks indicating installation progress. However, this method doesn’t automatically resolve dependencies, potentially causing installation failures if prerequisites are missing.
Handling Installation Issues
Dependency conflicts occasionally arise during installation. DNF displays detailed error messages identifying missing packages. Install missing dependencies manually:
sudo dnf install <package-name> -y
GPG key verification errors indicate repository signature mismatches. Import the required key:
sudo rpm --import <key-url>
Permission-related errors suggest insufficient privileges. Ensure sudo access functions correctly by testing:
sudo whoami
This command should return “root” when sudo works properly.
Method 2: Installing Figma-Linux via Snap
Enabling Snap Support on AlmaLinux 10
Snap packages provide universal Linux application distribution. Install the snapd daemon:
sudo dnf install snapd -y
Enable and start the snapd service:
sudo systemctl enable --now snapd.socket
The --now
flag combines enable and start operations into a single command. Create the classic snap support symbolic link:
sudo ln -s /var/lib/snapd/snap /snap
This symlink ensures snap applications integrate properly with system paths. Restart the snapd service or reboot the system to complete setup:
sudo systemctl restart snapd
Verify snap installation:
snap version
This displays snap version information, confirming successful installation.
Installing Figma-Linux from Snap Store
With snap support enabled, install Figma-Linux:
sudo snap install figma-linux
Snap automatically downloads and installs the application along with all dependencies. The installation creates an isolated environment with controlled permissions. Unlike traditional package managers, snap applications receive automatic background updates.
Configure local font access by creating symbolic links:
mkdir -p ~/snap/figma-linux/current/.local/share/fonts
ln -s ~/.local/share/fonts/* ~/snap/figma-linux/current/.local/share/fonts/
These commands enable Figma-Linux to access system fonts from within its confined snap environment.
Post-Snap Installation Configuration
Snap confinement restricts application access to system resources. Grant additional permissions if needed:
sudo snap connect figma-linux:home
Update snap packages manually:
sudo snap refresh figma-linux
Snap applications update automatically by default, but manual refreshes ensure immediate access to latest features and security patches.
Method 3: Installing Figma-Linux Using AppImage
Downloading the AppImage
AppImage provides truly portable Linux applications. Download the latest AppImage from GitHub releases:
wget https://github.com/Figma-Linux/figma-linux/releases/download/v0.11.5/figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_arm64.AppImage
AppImages bundle all dependencies within a single executable file. This portability eliminates dependency conflicts and simplifies deployment across different Linux distributions.
Making AppImage Executable
Downloaded files lack execution permissions by default. Add execute permissions:
chmod +x figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_arm64.AppImage
The chmod command modifies file permissions. The +x
flag adds execute permission for all users. Verify permissions changed successfully:
ls -l figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_arm64.AppImage
Look for x
characters in the permission string, indicating executable status.
Installing AppImage to System
While AppImages run portably, system integration improves usability. Install the AppImage:
./figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_arm64.AppImage -i
The -i
flag triggers the installation process, creating menu entries and desktop shortcuts. The application remains portable, storing settings in user directories rather than system locations.
Run the AppImage directly without installation:
./figma-linux_0.11.5_linux_arm64.AppImage
This portable execution method suits testing environments or systems without installation permissions.
Method 4: Building Figma-Linux from Source (Advanced)
Installing Build Prerequisites
Source compilation provides maximum customization and bleeding-edge features. Install Node.js and npm:
sudo dnf install nodejs npm -y
Node.js powers the Electron framework underlying Figma-Linux. Install Git version control:
sudo dnf install git -y
Git clones the source repository and tracks version history. Install additional development tools:
sudo dnf groupinstall "Development Tools" -y
This command group includes compilers, build systems, and essential libraries.
Cloning the Repository
Download the Figma-Linux source code:
git clone https://github.com/Figma-Linux/figma-linux.git
Git creates a local repository copy in the figma-linux
directory. Navigate to the project:
cd figma-linux
Examine available branches:
git branch -a
The main branch contains stable releases, while development branches host experimental features.
Building the Application
Install project dependencies:
npm install
NPM downloads JavaScript libraries defined in package.json. This process may take several minutes depending on network speed. Run development build:
npm run dev
Development builds include debugging symbols and hot reload capabilities. Create production build:
npm run build
Production builds optimize code for performance and file size. Package the application:
npm run builder
The builder script generates distribution packages including RPM files for AlmaLinux.
Creating Custom RPM Package
Modify builder configuration if needed:
nano package.json
Adjust build targets, application metadata, or package formats. Build RPM specifically:
npm run builder -- --linux rpm
The generated RPM appears in the dist
directory. Install the custom package:
sudo dnf install ./dist/figma-linux*.rpm -y
Source builds enable custom patches, experimental features, and optimizations specific to individual workflows.
Post-Installation Configuration
Launching Figma-Linux First Time
Access Figma from the application menu. Press the Super key (Windows key) and type “Figma” in the search field. The application icon appears in search results. Click to launch.
Alternatively, start Figma from terminal:
figma-linux
Command-line launching displays debugging output useful for troubleshooting startup issues.
Authenticating Your Figma Account
First launch presents a login screen. Click “Login with Browser” to initiate OAuth authentication. The default web browser opens to Figma’s authentication page. Enter email address and password associated with the Figma account. After successful authentication, the browser displays a confirmation message and attempts automatic token exchange.
If automatic token exchange fails, copy the authentication token manually. The terminal displays token information. Paste the token into Figma-Linux when prompted. Authentication persists across application restarts, eliminating repeated login requirements.
Configuring Local Font Access
Local fonts enhance design workflows by providing access to system-installed typefaces. Figma-Linux includes Figma Agent functionality for font management. Ensure font directories have proper permissions:
chmod -R 755 ~/.local/share/fonts
Refresh font cache:
fc-cache -fv
The fc-cache
command rebuilds font configuration databases. Restart Figma-Linux to detect newly available fonts. Test font access by creating a text element and browsing the font picker. System fonts appear alongside Figma’s web fonts.
Setting Up Application Preferences
Access preferences through the application menu or keyboard shortcut Ctrl+,
. Configure performance settings based on available system resources. Reduce quality settings on systems with limited graphics capabilities. Enable hardware acceleration for smoother rendering on systems with dedicated GPUs.
Configure auto-update preferences for snap or AppImage installations. Set default file locations for exports and cached resources. Adjust zoom levels and canvas rendering options to optimize visual clarity.
Verifying Successful Installation
Confirm installation success by checking several indicators. The application launches without error messages. Login completes successfully, displaying the Figma dashboard. Recent files and teams appear correctly. Create a test design file to verify full functionality.
Open an existing design project. Check that all assets, fonts, and components load properly. Test collaborative features by commenting on designs or sharing prototypes. Verify local fonts render correctly in text elements.
Check installed version:
figma-linux --version
This command displays version information, confirming successful system integration.
Common Installation Issues and Troubleshooting
Dependency Resolution Problems
Missing library errors indicate incomplete dependency installation. Common missing dependencies include libgconf and related GTK libraries. Install missing packages:
sudo dnf install libXScrnSaver gtk3 -y
EPEL repository issues prevent access to certain packages. Verify EPEL installation:
dnf repolist
Look for epel
in the repository list. Reinstall if missing.
Authentication Failures
Browser authentication failures typically stem from xdg-open configuration issues. Verify default browser settings:
xdg-settings get default-web-browser
Set default browser if unset:
xdg-settings set default-web-browser firefox.desktop
Token exchange timeouts occur on slow network connections. Extend timeout by manually copying authentication tokens from browser to application. Firewall rules blocking OAuth callbacks cause authentication loops. Temporarily disable firewalls during initial setup:
sudo systemctl stop firewalld
Remember to re-enable after successful authentication:
sudo systemctl start firewalld
Performance Issues
Application crashes or freezing often relate to insufficient memory. Monitor resource usage:
htop
Close unnecessary applications to free resources. High memory consumption may require adjusting Figma-Linux settings. Reduce canvas quality and disable hardware acceleration for older systems.
Graphics rendering problems indicate driver issues. Update graphics drivers:
sudo dnf update mesa-* -y
Font loading issues arise from cache corruption. Clear font cache:
rm -rf ~/.cache/fontconfig
fc-cache -r
Permission and Access Errors
Sudo permission errors prevent system-wide installations. Verify user belongs to wheel group:
groups $USER
Add user to wheel group if missing:
sudo usermod -aG wheel $USER
Log out and back in for group changes to take effect. File system access restrictions on snap installations require explicit permission grants. Review snap connections:
snap connections figma-linux
Grant additional permissions as needed using snap connect commands.
Managing and Updating Figma-Linux
Updating via Package Manager
Keep RPM installations current with DNF:
sudo dnf update figma-linux -y
DNF checks configured repositories for newer versions and installs updates automatically. Check for available updates without installing:
sudo dnf check-update figma-linux
This command displays version information for available updates without modifying the system.
Updating Snap Installation
Snap packages update automatically by default. Force immediate update:
sudo snap refresh figma-linux
View update history:
snap changes
This displays all snap operations including recent updates. Revert to previous version if updates cause issues:
sudo snap revert figma-linux
Updating AppImage
AppImages lack built-in update mechanisms. Manually download newer versions from GitHub releases. Replace old AppImage with new version:
mv figma-linux-old.AppImage figma-linux-backup.AppImage
wget <new-appimage-url>
chmod +x figma-linux-new.AppImage
Reinstall to update menu entries:
./figma-linux-new.AppImage -i
Uninstalling Figma-Linux from AlmaLinux 10
Remove RPM installations using DNF:
sudo dnf remove figma-linux -y
DNF removes the application while preserving user configuration files. Remove Snap installations:
sudo snap remove figma-linux
Snap removal includes all application data and configurations. For complete cleanup, remove snap-specific directories:
rm -rf ~/snap/figma-linux
Delete AppImage installations by removing the executable file:
rm figma-linux*.AppImage
Clean up desktop integration:
rm ~/.local/share/applications/figma-linux*.desktop
Remove unused dependencies:
sudo dnf autoremove -y
This command removes packages installed as dependencies but no longer needed by any application.
Best Practices and Tips
Security Considerations
Download Figma-Linux exclusively from official GitHub releases or verified repositories. Verify package signatures when available to detect tampering. Keep both the operating system and Figma application updated with latest security patches. Regular system updates address vulnerabilities that could compromise design files or authentication tokens.
Enable firewall protection:
sudo systemctl enable --now firewalld
Configure firewall rules to allow necessary Figma connections while blocking unnecessary access.
Performance Optimization
Allocate sufficient system resources for smooth operation. Close resource-intensive applications during active design sessions. Enable hardware acceleration in Figma preferences when supported by the graphics card. Monitor system performance:
gnome-system-monitor
Optimize font cache for faster loading:
fc-cache -fv
Regular cache maintenance prevents performance degradation over time.
Backup and Data Management
Figma stores design files in the cloud by default, providing automatic synchronization and version control. Export important projects locally for offline access and additional backup security. Configure automatic exports for critical projects.
Set up regular backups of Figma configuration:
tar -czf figma-config-backup.tar.gz ~/.config/figma-linux
This creates compressed archives of application settings for quick restoration after reinstallation.
Alternatives to Figma-Linux Desktop App
Using Figma Web Version
The browser-based Figma version offers full functionality without desktop client installation. Modern browsers including Firefox, Chrome, and Chromium provide excellent Figma support on AlmaLinux 10. Web version advantages include automatic updates, no installation requirements, and identical feature sets across platforms.
Install browsers optimized for web applications:
sudo dnf install firefox chromium -y
Browser-based workflows suit temporary workstations or systems where application installation isn’t permitted.
Browser Compatibility
All major browsers support Figma’s web interface. Firefox and Chromium receive regular updates through AlmaLinux repositories. Chrome requires manual installation from Google’s repository. Browser extensions enhance web-based workflows by adding shortcuts, notifications, and integration features.
Pros and Cons Comparison
Desktop applications provide offline capabilities, better font support, and system integration. Web versions offer automatic updates, universal compatibility, and no installation overhead. Choose based on workflow requirements, internet connectivity, and system resources.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Figma. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing Figma collaborative interface design application on AlmaLinux OS 10 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official Figma website.