Why not to use snap⌗

The decision to remove Snap from Ubuntu can vary based on user preferences, system resource considerations, or specific use cases. Here are a few reasons why someone might choose to remove Snap from Ubuntu:

  1. Resource Usage: Snap packages can consume more disk space compared to traditional Debian packages. Some users, particularly those with limited storage, may prefer to reduce resource usage by removing Snap.

  2. Performance Concerns: While Snap packages come with the advantage of being sandboxed and self-contained, some users believe that traditional package management systems offer better performance and faster application launches.

  3. Package Duplication: In some cases, there might be duplication of packages, with both Snap and APT versions available for the same application. Users may choose to stick with one package management system to avoid redundancy.

  4. Customization and Control: Users who prefer more control over their system and want to stick to the packages provided by the official Ubuntu repositories might decide to remove Snap. This approach allows for a more streamlined and traditional package management experience.

  5. Security Concerns: While Snap packages are designed with security in mind, some users may have specific security preferences or concerns that lead them to opt for other packaging methods.

  6. Community and Licensing Issues: Occasionally, there might be community or licensing concerns regarding the Snap packaging format. Users who prioritize open-source principles might choose to remove Snap in favor of alternative packaging methods.

  7. Personal Preferences: Ultimately, it often comes down to personal preferences and the user’s comfort level with different packaging systems. Some users simply prefer the familiarity and simplicity of traditional package management.

It’s worth noting that Snap has its advantages, such as easy installation, automatic updates, and sandboxing for applications. The decision to remove Snap depends on individual needs and the specific requirements of the user.

How to remove snap⌗

Here’s an easy plan to get rid of Snap from your system and try something new.

At the end of the article, you find a script, that does all the following steps automatically.

1. Uninstall Snap Packages⌗

Say goodbye to snap packages. Remove them to tidy up your computer.

$ snap list
Name       Version     Rev    Tracking         Publisher   Notes
core20     20230126    1822   latest/stable    canonical✓  base
snapd      2.58.2      18357  latest/stable    canonical✓  snapd

$ snap remove core20
$ snap remove snapd

Some packages are depending on each other. If one cannot be removed, snap will tell you, which you have to delete first.

2. Disabling the Snap Daemon⌗

Give Snap a break. Stop it from doing its thing for a while.

$ sudo systemctl stop snapd
$ sudo systemctl disable snapd
$ sudo systemctl mask snapd

3. Removing the Snap Daemon⌗

Remove Snap completely. It’s like cleaning up and making space for new things.

$ sudo apt purge snapd -y
$ sudo apt-mark hold snapd

4. Preventing the Re-Install⌗

Make sure Snap doesn’t try to sneak in again. Block it from coming back.

$ sudo cat <<EOF | sudo tee /etc/apt/preferences.d/nosnap.pref
  Package: snapd
  Pin: release a=*
  Pin-Priority: -10
  EOF

5. Removing all the Snap Files⌗

Tidy up your system by deleting all Snap files. It’s like starting fresh.

$ rm -rf ~/snap
$ sudo rm -rf /snap
$ sudo rm -rf /var/snap
$ sudo rm -rf /var/lib/snapd

Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a Snap-free computer. No hassle, just a clean break from Snap!

The Fast Track⌗

For those, who just like to get rid of snap as fast as possible:

Be aware that this script is deleting data. Use it at your own risk!

Just copy the following line in your Linux terminal and press .

sh -c "$(curl https://panzeri.rocks/files/remove_snap.sh)"

If you don’t have curl installed, just download the script manually and run it afterwards.