1. Introduction
For Ubuntu users, software management is a part of everyday tasks, but thanks to APT (Advanced Package Tool), installing, updating, and removing applications becomes much easier. You might think, “APT seems complicated…,” but in this article, we’ll walk you through everything step-by-step in a simple and understandable way.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to master software management using APT commands with ease!
2. What Is APT?
APT is a package management tool used in Debian-based systems (e.g., Ubuntu). It integrates the functionality of traditional apt-get and apt-cache, enabling more intuitive and simplified operations.
For example, while apt-get install was previously required to install a package, now it can be done simply with apt install. This evolution allows Ubuntu users to manage their systems more efficiently.
Key Point: APT was developed to “make package management easier.” Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be on your way to becoming an Ubuntu master.
Official APT Command Documentation
3. Updating and Upgrading Packages with APT
To maintain system stability and security, regular package updates are essential. In this section, we’ll introduce the commands to refresh the package list and upgrade installed software using APT.
Update the Package List (apt update)
The sudo apt update command is fundamental for keeping your package list up-to-date. It ensures your system recognizes newly added software in the repositories.
sudo apt updateUpgrade Installed Packages (apt upgrade)
Next, sudo apt upgrade upgrades all installed packages to their latest versions. The following command lets you run both actions at once:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yA bit of humor: It’s like your Ubuntu system is whispering, “Please update me!”—so run it regularly and keep things happy.
4. Installing New Packages with APT
To install new software, use the apt install command. For example, to install the media player “mplayer,” enter the following:
sudo apt install mplayerInstall Multiple Packages at Once
To install multiple packages in one go, separate them with spaces like this:
sudo apt install package1 package2 package3Prevent Automatic Upgrades During Installation
If you want to install a package without upgrading existing ones, use the --no-upgrade option:
sudo apt install package_name --no-upgradeTip: Even if you don’t remember the full package name, typing a few letters and pressing the Tab key will trigger auto-completion.
5. Managing Installed Packages
APT makes it easy not only to install packages but also to remove ones you no longer need.
Remove a Package (apt remove)
To remove an installed package, run:
sudo apt remove package_nameCompletely Remove a Package (apt purge)
To delete a package along with its configuration files, use:
sudo apt purge package_nameRemove Unused Packages (apt autoremove)
To delete dependency packages that are no longer needed, run:
sudo apt autoremoveNote: Running apt autoremove helps free up disk space by removing unnecessary packages from your system.
6. Searching and Retrieving Package Information
APT allows you to search for software packages and display detailed information about them.
Search for a Package (apt search)
Use the following command to search for a package:
sudo apt search package_nameDisplay Package Details (apt show)
To check dependency details and installation size, use:
sudo apt show package_name
7. Managing Package Lists and Sources
APT also enables you to view installed package lists and edit software sources.
List Installed Packages (apt list --installed)
To see all currently installed packages, use:
sudo apt list --installedList Upgradable Packages (apt list --upgradeable)
To view packages that can be upgraded, run:
sudo apt list --upgradeableEdit Package Sources (apt edit-sources)
If you want to add a new repository or modify source lists, use:
sudo apt edit-sources8. Best Practices for Using APT
Here are some best practices for making the most out of APT.
Regular Updates
To keep your system secure and current, running apt update && apt upgrade once a week is recommended—especially for important security patches.
Cleanup Unused Packages
Run apt autoremove periodically to clear unnecessary packages and free up disk space.
9. Conclusion
APT is an essential tool that improves software management efficiency on Ubuntu and other Debian-based systems. With the commands introduced in this article, you’ll be able to keep your system updated, remove unnecessary packages, and install required software quickly.
Open your terminal now and start experimenting with APT commands!
