A lightweight tool to install Ruby, JRuby, TruffleRuby, and mruby from source with extensive customization options.
ruby-install is a lightweight, command-line tool for installing Ruby and its alternative implementations (JRuby, TruffleRuby, mruby) from source. It automates downloading, compiling, and setting up Ruby environments with extensive customization options, such as specifying installation directories, applying patches, and configuring build parameters. It solves the problem of manually managing Ruby installations across different platforms and versions.
Ruby developers and system administrators who need a simple, reliable way to install and manage multiple Ruby implementations without the overhead of full version managers. It's particularly useful for those deploying Ruby in production or development environments requiring specific versions or custom configurations.
Developers choose ruby-install for its minimalistic design, focus on stable releases, and flexibility. Unlike heavier version managers, it doesn't require constant updates or complex recipes, offering direct control over the installation process while supporting a wide range of operating systems and integration with tools like rbenv and RVM.
Installs Ruby, JRuby, TruffleRuby, or mruby
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Supports CRuby, JRuby, TruffleRuby, and mruby, allowing developers to install multiple Ruby variants with a single tool, as listed in the README.
Allows installations in system-wide (/opt/rubies/), user-specific (~/.rubies/), or arbitrary directories, making it versatile for different deployment scenarios.
Enables passing arbitrary ./configure flags, applying patches, and specifying custom compilers for fine-tuned Ruby builds, as shown in the synopsis examples.
Works on various Linux distributions, macOS, and FreeBSD, with automatic dependency resolution via package managers like apt, dnf, and brew.
Only installs supported and maintained Ruby versions, ensuring installations are reliable and secure, avoiding potential issues with beta or outdated releases.
Unlike tools like RVM or rbenv, ruby-install doesn't handle switching between installed versions; users must manually adjust PATH or use additional tools.
Does not support installing trunk/HEAD or unmaintained Ruby versions, which can be a drawback for developers needing the latest features or working with legacy code.
To use with version managers or in production, users need to configure paths and shell environments manually, which can be complex and error-prone.
Requires a range of command-line tools like wget/curl, checksum utilities, and compilers, which might not be present in stripped-down or containerized environments.