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Installing, Updating, and Removing Software (Debian-based & RedHat-based System)

In Linux, most software is distributed as packages—compressed files containing application code, dependencies, and configuration scripts.

  • Managing these packages is essential for maintaining a healthy, secure, and functional system.
  • Each Linux distribution (distro) has its own package manager to handle software.

Key Concepts​

  • Package Manager: A tool that automates the process of installing, updating, and removing software.
  • Repositories (Repos): Remote storage locations that contain verified software packages.
  • Dependencies: Additional software or libraries required by an application.

Package Formats:

  • Debian-based systems: .deb files (e.g., Ubuntu, Debian).
  • Red Hat-based systems: .rpm files (e.g., RHEL, Fedora, CentOS).

1. Debian-based Systems (apt, dpkg)​

1.1 Using APT (Advanced Package Tool)​

APT is a high-level package manager for Debian-based systems, designed for simplicity and automation.

Key Features of APT:

  • Simplifies package installation, removal, and updates.
  • Resolves and installs dependencies automatically.
  • Downloads packages from remote repositories.

Basic APT Commands:​

1. Update Package Lists:​

Before installing or updating any software, refresh the local repository information:

sudo apt update

Explanation:

  • Downloads the latest metadata (list of available software and versions).
  • Ensures you get the latest software.

2. Upgrade Installed Packages​

sudo apt upgrade

Explanation:

  • Updates all installed software to the latest versions.
  • Useful for applying security patches and bug fixes.

3. Install Software​

sudo apt install <package_name>

Example: Install the text editor vim.

sudo apt install vim

4. Remove Software​

sudo apt remove <package_name>

Example: Remove vim.

sudo apt remove vim

Example: For Complete Removal (including configuration files)

sudo apt purge vim

5. Search for Software​

apt search <keyword>

Example: Search for web servers:

apt search nginx

6. Clean Up Unused Packages​

sudo apt autoremove

Removes dependencies that are no longer needed by any installed software.

1.2 Using dpkg (Debian Package Manager)​

dpkg is a low-level tool for manually managing packages. Unlike APT, it does not resolve dependencies automatically.

1. Install a Local Package​

sudo dpkg -i <package.deb>

Example: Installing google chrome.

sudo dpkg -i google-chrome-stable_current_amd64.deb

2. Check Installed Packages​

dpkg -l | grep <package_name>

3. Remove a Package​

sudo dpkg -r <package_name>

4. Fix Broken Installations​

If dependencies are missing:

sudo apt install -f

2. Red Hat-based Systems (yum, dnf, rpm)​

2.1 Using YUM (Yellowdog Updater Modified)​

YUM is the older package manager for Red Hat-based systems.

Basic yum Commands:​

1. Install Software​

sudo yum install <package_name>

Example: Install httpd

sudo yum install httpd

2. Remove Software​

sudo yum remove <package_name>

3. Update Packages​

sudo yum update

2.2 Using DNF (Dandified YUM)​

DNF replaces YUM in modern Red Hat-based distributions and is faster and more efficient.

1. Install Software​

sudo dnf install <package_name>

2. Remove Software​

sudo dnf remove <package_name>

3. Update Software​

sudo dnf update

2.3 Using RPM (Red Hat Package Manager)​

rpm is a low-level tool similar to dpkg.

1: Install an RPM Package​

sudo rpm -i <package.rpm>

2. Upgrade an RPM Package​

sudo rpm -U <package.rpm>

3. Remove an RPM Package​

sudo rpm -e <package_name>

Key Differences Between Package Managers​

FeatureAPTDPKGYUMDNFRPM
Dependency HandlingYesNoYesYesNo
Repository SupportYesNoYesYesNo
Local File SupportNoYesNoNoYes

Key Takeaways​

  • Use APT/DNF for everyday tasks as they handle dependencies automatically.
  • Reserve DPKG/RPM for advanced scenarios like local installations.
  • Regularly update and clean packages to ensure security and performance.
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