How to Install ClamTK on Ubuntu

October 17, 2025 / Ubuntu

ClamTK is a graphical front-end for ClamAV, an open-source antivirus engine designed to detect and remove malware, viruses, and trojans for Linux desktop users. It offers an easy-to-use interface for users who prefer not to work with command-line tools.

This guide explains how to install ClamTK on Ubuntu using both the command line and the Software Center.

Follow the guide:

  1. Update System Packages
    Before installing new software, it’s advised to update your package lists to guarantee you get the latest version, using the following command:

    sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  2. Install ClamAV
    ClamTK works on top of ClamAV, so you must install ClamAV first:

    sudo apt install clamav clamav-daemon -y

    Once installed, update the virus definitions:

    sudo freshclam
  3. Install ClamTK
    Install ClamTK using the default Ubuntu repositories:

    sudo apt install clamtk -y

    This command will automatically download and install ClamTK along with any required dependencies.

  4. Launch ClamTK
    Once installed, you can start ClamTK in two ways:

    1. Using Terminal: 
      clamtk
    2. From Applications Menu:
      Open the Applications Menu> Search for ClamTK> Click to open the graphical interface.
  5. Keeping ClamTK and Virus Definitions Updated
    1. To maintain protection, update ClamAV regularly using: 
      sudo freshclam
    2. You can also update all system packages (including ClamTK) periodically: 
      sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  6. Uninstalling ClamTK and ClamAV
    If you wish to remove ClamTK from your system, run the following command:

    sudo apt remove --purge clamtk -y

    To remove ClamAV as well:

    sudo apt remove --purge clamav clamav-daemon -y
sudo apt autoremove -y

This way, you have successfully installed ClamTK on your Ubuntu system. With its user-friendly interface and integration with ClamAV, ClamTK makes it simple to scan, detect, and remove potential threats from your system. If you find any difficulty in this process, feel free to contact our support staff.

Read more tutorials about: Installation Guide: System Requirements for Ubuntu