The Linux apt command: Debian and Ubuntu package manager

Introduction

The package manageraptis one of the most used tools in Debian-based distributions, such as Ubuntu and Linux Mint. Its design allows you to install, update and remove software easily from the command line, taking advantage of official and third-party repositories.

What is apt and how does it work?

Apt (Advanced Package Tool) is a front ofdpkgwhich manages the download, unit resolution and installation of .de. packages. Works with source list files located in/etc/apt/sources.listand in the directory/etc/apt/sources.list.d/.

Update the package list

Before any operation it is recommended to synchronize the local index with the remote repositories. This is achieved by:

sudo apt update

The command download the filesPackages.gzand compare the available versions, without installing anything.

Update the system

With the updated index you can apply all available updates:

sudo apt upgrade

This command updates the installed packages to their latest versions, maintaining the dependencies. To make a complete update that can change versions of units by removing obsolete packages:

sudo apt full-upgrade

Install packages

To install a new package:

sudo apt install nombre_del_paquete

If you want to install a specific version you can indicate:

sudo apt install nombre_del_paquete=1.2.3-4ubuntu1

In addition, apt allows you to install several packages at the same time by separating them by spaces.

Remove Packages

To remove a package by leaving the configuration files:

sudo apt remove nombre_del_paquete

If you want to delete also the configuration files you use:

sudo apt purge nombre_del_paquete

Search packages

Before installing it is useful to search the repositories:

apt search palabra_clave

For detailed information on a package:

apt show nombre_del_paquete

Clean cache and unnecessary packages

Over time, the download cache takes up space. It can be cleaned with:

sudo apt clean

To automatically remove packages that were installed as dependencies and no longer necessary:

sudo apt autoremove

Advanced Options and Tips

• --no-install-recommends: avoids installing recommended packages that are not strictly necessary.
• --reinstall: forces the reinstallation of a package, useful when suspected of corrupt files.
• -sor--simulate: shows what would happen without making real changes.
• Useapt list --upgradableto see which packages have updates pending.
• Configure/etc/apt/apt.conf.d/20auto-upgradesto activate automatic updates on servers.

Conclusion

Domainaptallows efficient management of the software on any Debian-based system. With basic commands and some advanced options you can keep the system up to date, safe and free of unnecessary packages.