Getting Started/Build

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Getting Started/Build

Here you will find instructions for compiling and installing KDE from source and suggestions for when compilation doesn't go so smoothly.

Introduction

Extra Information

The build process described in these pages is kept as simple and generic as possible, but it is generally assumed you are building KDE4 on Linux. Extra information about building KDE under specific distributions, platforms or conditions can be found at the following links:

Scripted Builds

The easiest way to build the KDE SC from scratch is to use one of the build scripts that are available. This approach is highly recommended for those new to building KDE SC as it takes care of all the downloading an building for you. The builds remain compatible with the manual methods of building KDE SC so you can change later if you want.

The kdesrc-bld script by Michael Pyne
The build-tool script by Michael Jansen

Getting Ready

Manually building KDE Software requires that you first set up the build environment and install the required development tools and libraries.

Set up your Build Environment
Install the Build Requirements
Install or build Qt
Install or build kdesupport

Building From Source

Troubleshooting The Build

Compile and Linking errors are frequent sources of discouragement. Make careful note of the first occurrence of an error in your build process. It could be as simple as a bad environment variable, an unexpected version of a library or missing prerequisite. Please read the instructions carefully.

Please review your logs and do searches for fixes. If you cannot find a solution, try the Troubleshooting page. If you still cannot resolve the problem then please ask for help on IRC or a Mailing List.