1  Quick Start: Installation Instructions

1.1 R

  1. R is available for free from the Comprehensive R Archive Network (CRAN). Go to this website.
  2. Click the download link that corresponds to your operating system.
    • Windows: Click “Base” and download the installer. Follow the installation instructions.
    • Mac: Select the version that corresponds with the version of your operating system and chip type (silicon vs. Intel). Follow the installation instructions.
    • Linux: Click on your distribution. Follow the installation instructions.

Confirm that installation was successful by opening the R program.

1.2 RStudio

While the R application is perfectly functional on its own, it is not as convenient as other applications. Specifically, we are interested in a more user-friendly Graphical User Interface (GUI). The GUI comprises the menus available to users for point-and-click operations. RStudio is a free software with an accessible GUI.

  1. Navigate to the RStudio IDE webpage.
  2. Choose the free version of RStudio Desktop.
  3. Select your operating system and follow the installation instructions.

Confirm that the installation was successful by opening RStudio.

1.3 Aggie Virtual Desktop

Aggie Virtual Desktop, also known as the Virtual Open Access Lab (VOAL) provides access to software, including R. This is an option if you cannot download R or RStudio onto your computer.

  1. Navigate to the Aggie Virtual Desktop login page.
  2. You can either download the VMware Horizon Client or access VMware Horizon via an internet browser.
  3. Click on VOAL. Make sure you allow for pop-up windows.
  4. You can access R and RStudio through the virtual machine (VM).