Over a million engineers and scientists use MATLAB to help solve math problems, develop algorithms, data visualization, and more. The programming platform uses a matrix-based language, also named MATLAB, that allows for a natural expression of computational mathematics.

MATLAB creates a comfortable working environment by integrating all the important factors, such as computation, visualization, and programming, into a single platform that is familiar to those using it.

The language and platform were designed as an interactive program that allows you to solve different types of computing problems, including those with matrix and vector formulations. The system is very fast, and you can solve the problem quickly without having to write a program in a different language to find a solution.

Follow the instructions below, and I’ll show you how to download a free trial of MATLAB.

How to Download MATLAB on PC for Free

  1. Click the Download button on the sidebar, and the official MATLAB download page will open in a new tab.
  2. Click the Download a Free Trial button.
  3. Before the download begins, you will need to create an account. Enter a valid email address and press the Continue button.
  4. Enter the country you’ll be working from, answer the question “What Best Describes You,” and click Create.
  5. If you created your account with a personal email address, but your company or university already has a MATLAB account, you can use your company or university email address to access the MATLAB license. If you’re not affiliated with any organization that has a license, you can continue with your personal email.
  6. Open the verification email, and click on the Verify My Email button.
  7. A new tab will open where you can finish creating your account. Add your name and a secure password, accept the Online Services Agreement, and click the Create button.
  8. There is one last question “How will you use your trial?” Select MATLAB Essentials from the dropdown menu and click Submit.
  9. You can use MATLAB through your browser. However, if you want to download the software, click the “Install MATLAB on your Computer” button. The installation file will download to your computer.
  10. Open the file when the download is complete, and the setup wizard will begin.
  11. Log in to your account and click Next.
  12. The setup wizard will take you through several steps, including accepting the Terms and Agreement and the file destination folder. Follow the on-screen instructions, and the software will install on your computer.
  13. When the installation is complete, MATLAB will automatically open on your computer.

How to Uninstall MATLAB

If MATLAB isn’t the right programming language for you, or you just prefer working on the browser, you can uninstall the program in a few simple steps.

  1. Type “Add or Remove Programs” in the Windows search bar and press the Enter key.
  2. Locate MATLAB in the list of installed programs and click the Uninstall button.
  3. Confirm that you want to delete the program, and the setup wizard will completely remove it from your computer.

If you’re looking for a free MATLAB alternative, check out my recommendations below.

MATLAB Overview

MATLAB, which stands for Matrix Laboratory, was developed to provide users with easy access to specific matrix software developed by LINPACK and EISPACK projects. At the time, these two were considered the top technology for matrix computation software.

Over the past few years, the software has evolved as users started adding input and submitting feature requests. It is currently considered the industry-standard tool for all levels of math, engineering, and science courses. MATLAB is used by professionals for high-level research, development, and analysis.

The MATLAB workstation

MATLAB Features

In MATLAB, the software operates by organizing various technologies and applications into specific features called “toolboxes.” These toolboxes comprise a collection of MATLAB functions, referred to as M-files. This design provides flexibility and enhances the capabilities of the MATLAB environment.

There are toolboxes that are designed to work with stats and machine learning, signal processing, control system, neural networks, wavelets, simulation, to name a few.

A sample of MATLAB toolboxes

There are five parts to the MATLAB system:

1. Language

This MATLAB language is a complex matrix that has features to work with control flow statements, functions, data structures, input/output, and object-oriented programming. It’s flexible enough to work with “programming in the small” for writing fast programs that are needed for one time use and “programming in the large” for developing intense and complex apps and algorithms.

2. Working Environment

The working environment has all the tools needed for both users and programmers to work with MATLAB. You can import and export data, manage the variable, debug the algorithms, profile the M-files, and more.

3. Handle Graphics

The graphics system is divided into two sections:

  • High Level: Visualization tools for 2D and 3D images, animation, and presentation graphics.
  • Low Level: Tools to customize how the graphics will appear and develop a GUI interface for your MATLAB apps.

4. Mathematical Function Library

The math functions can handle a wide range of functions and mathematical formulas. You can work with anything from the basic sum, sine, and cosine to more complex functions like matrix inverse, matrix eigenvalues, Bessel functions, and fast Fourier transforms.

5. Application Program Interface (API)

You can use the MATLAB library to write APIs in C or Fortran to interact with MATLAB. The APIs can interact with the MATLAB applications via calling routines and reading and writing the MAT files.

Free Alternatives to MATLAB

  • GNU Octave: GNU Octave was developed mainly for complex linear and non-linear computations. It’s compatible with most programs running MATLAB and other programs written in Java, C++, and Fortran. It comes with data visualization tools and works with complete mathematical syntax.
  • Scilab: An open source software that was designed to work like MATLAB, Scilab can be used to develop complex algorithms, analyze data, and view models of previous computations.

FAQ

Is MATLAB free?

While there is no permanent free MATLAB subscription, you can follow my instructions above, and I’ll show you how to get started for free with a 30-day trial.

Is MATLAB secure?

All programs that are stored on the MATLAB servers are secured with TLS encryption. No one can access your folders or files without permission that can only be granted through your account. If you’re using the desktop version of MATLAB and storing the files locally, they are only as secure as your computer.

For this reason, it’s important that you only download the official version of MATLAB, which has no malware or viruses and avoid using pirated or cracked versions, where bad actors can insert malicious files in the installer to gain access to your computer easily.

Is MATLAB easy to learn?

Yes and no. MATLAB is a programming language developed specifically for scientists and engineers. If you’re a student or professional, then you shouldn’t have a difficult time picking up the language, as it was written in a way that is easy to learn. MATLAB has a great tutorial that shows you the basics, so you can quickly get started.

However, if you have no background in these industries, it will take time to learn the basic concepts, and the software will seem complex.

Download MATLAB now!