Inspired by k3d3's successful NixOS implementation, I had Claude create a Debian package build script that lets you run Claude Desktop natively on Debian-based Linux distributions.

Key features:

• Tested on MX Linux

• Should work on Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and other Debian derivatives

• Full support for MCP (Model Context Protocol)

• Working Ctrl+Alt+Space popup

• System tray integration

• Proper desktop integration (icons, application menu)

The build script:

• Checks system compatibility

• Handles all dependencies automatically

• Creates a proper Debian package

• Implements Linux-native keyboard handling

Repository: https://github.com/aaddrick/claude-desktop-debian

To install:

git clone 
cd claude-desktop-debian
sudo ./build-deb.sh
sudo dpkg -i build/electron-app/claude-desktop_0.7.7_amd64.deb

Big thanks to k3d3 for the original work and insights into the application structure!

Note: This is an unofficial build script - please report any issues on GitHub, not to Anthropic.

MCP Setup:

1. Click on the menu icon in the top left

2. Go to File >> Settings

3. Follow instructions at https://modelcontextprotocol.io/quickstart/user

MCP config file will be created at ~/.config/Claude/claude_desktop_config.json

4. Restart Claude Desktop using the tray icon

When you restart Claude Desktop, the changes to the MCP config will be picked up. Restart Claude fully each time you adjust claude_desktop_config.json