Install Ruby on FreeBSD

Update pkg

FreeBSD manages binary packages with pkg. Refresh its catalog first so the Ruby package details are current.

This step also confirms that pkg itself works before you install anything new.

Refresh the package catalog

sudo pkg update

Wait until the update reports that the repository catalog is done. If the network was offline, run the same command again once the connection is back.

Install the ruby package

On FreeBSD the package name carries the version, so you pick the Ruby line you want at install time:

Install Ruby

sudo pkg install ruby

Confirm the install when pkg shows the package plan. It adds the ruby and gem commands so every new terminal can use them right away.

ruby -v

Check what was installed with one short command:

Show the installed Ruby version

ruby -v

ruby 3.2.2 (2023-03-30 revision e51014f9c0) [amd64-freebsd13]

You will see the word ruby followed by the version number and build details. If the terminal reports that the command was not found, log out and log in again so the new settings take effect.

Ports alternative

An alternative to binary packages is the Ports collection, which builds software from source with custom options.

Beginners should stay with pkg because it is fast and predictable. Explore Ports later when you need special build flags or want to study how a package is assembled.

Next: Ruby in Docker

Article author: Arthur Isaev