# Installing development tools on an unmanaged server

> Install compilers and development tools on a new AlmaLinux, Debian or Ubuntu server so you can build software from source.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/web-development/installing-development-tools-on-an-unmanaged-server/

When configuring a new unmanaged server, you may need to build programs from source. By default, a new server (VPS) comes with a minimal set of software packages, so compilers and development tools must be installed separately.

### AlmaLinux

To install development tools on AlmaLinux:

1. **Log in to the server via SSH**.
2. **Install the Development Tools group**:

```
yum groupinstall "Development Tools"
```

This group includes packages such as:

- `autoconf`
- `automake`
- `gcc / g++`
- `gdb`
- `git`
- `patch`

3. **Install the libffi development package**:

```
yum install libffi-devel
```

You now have the essential development tools installed.

**Note:** Depending on the software you want to build, additional dependencies may be required. Check the project's documentation.

### Debian and Ubuntu

To install development tools on Debian or Ubuntu:

1. **Log in to the server via SSH**.
2. **Install essential build tools**:

```
apt-get install build-essential
```

3. **Install additional development packages**:

```
apt-get install autoconf automake gdb git libffi-dev zlib1g-dev libssl-dev
```

You now have the essential development tools installed.

> **Note:**
Additional dependencies may be needed depending on the software you plan to compile. Always refer to the project documentation.