1. Introduction
For Ubuntu users, the package management system plays a crucial role. Typically, Ubuntu uses APT as its package management system, but some users may want to use YUM, which is available in Red Hat-based systems such as CentOS and RHEL. This article provides a detailed explanation of why and how to install YUM on Ubuntu, as well as how APT serves as an alternative to YUM.
Ubuntu is a Debian-based distribution and does not support RPM packages. Nevertheless, certain use cases may require working with RPM packages. This article will help you understand the differences between YUM and APT, and explain how to properly use YUM on Ubuntu.
2. Differences Between Ubuntu and YUM
Ubuntu is a Debian-based distribution that uses APT (Advanced Package Tool) as its default package management system. On the other hand, YUM (Yellowdog Updater, Modified) is a package management tool used in Red Hat-based distributions such as CentOS and RHEL.
Differences Between APT and YUM
- APT (Advanced Package Tool)
In Ubuntu and Debian, APT is primarily used to install, update, and remove packages with commands such asapt-getandapt. Since APT handles DEB packages, it allows easy management of packages from Ubuntu and Debian repositories. - YUM (Yellowdog Updater, Modified)
In Red Hat-based distributions, YUM is used to install and update RPM packages. YUM is an RPM-based package management tool commonly used in Red Hat Enterprise Linux and CentOS.
Why Use YUM on Ubuntu?
Reasons for using YUM on Ubuntu include users who are accustomed to YUM from Red Hat-based environments or cases where specific RPM packages need to be installed. However, using APT is generally recommended.
3. Why Install YUM on Ubuntu?
There are several use cases in which YUM becomes necessary on Ubuntu. In particular, when working with RPM packages or when operating a hybrid environment that includes both Red Hat-based systems and Ubuntu, installing YUM can be beneficial.
When You Need to Handle RPM Packages
Although Ubuntu typically uses DEB packages, some software may only be available in RPM format. By using YUM, you can manage RPM packages and successfully install such software on Ubuntu.
Using YUM in a Hybrid Environment
Many companies use both Ubuntu and Red Hat-based distributions. Using the same package management tool—YUM—across systems helps reduce administrative effort and allows consistent package management.
4. Steps to Install YUM
Installing YUM on Ubuntu is relatively simple. Below are the steps required to install it.
How to Install YUM
First, use the following commands to install YUM:
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install yumAlthough this installs YUM, installing the rpm command alongside it is useful, since YUM deals with RPM packages.
sudo apt-get install rpmOnce this is done, your environment is ready to manage RPM packages on Ubuntu.
5. Alternatives to YUM: Leveraging APT
APT is Ubuntu’s standard package management tool and can handle almost all package-related tasks. Here, we introduce how to use APT as an alternative to YUM.
Basic Usage of APT Commands
Package management in Ubuntu is typically done with APT. Below are useful commands for common tasks:
- Install a package:
sudo apt install <package-name>- Update installed packages:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade- Remove a package:
sudo apt remove <package-name>APT is a powerful tool that can automatically resolve dependencies, making it easier for most Ubuntu users compared to using YUM.
6. Real-World Use Cases: When YUM Becomes Necessary
One situation where YUM becomes necessary on Ubuntu is when installing specific RPM packages. This commonly occurs when using tools or applications compatible with Red Hat-based systems.
Use Case 1: Installing RPM Packages
YUM is helpful when installing RPM packages on Ubuntu. If a software package is only provided in RPM format, YUM allows you to install it directly.
sudo yum install <package-name>.rpmUse Case 2: Hybrid System Management
In companies where Ubuntu and CentOS coexist, using YUM enables administrators to manage packages with the same commands across both systems, reducing workload and ensuring consistent operations.
7. Troubleshooting and FAQ
Some issues may arise when installing YUM on Ubuntu. Below are common problems and solutions.
Error 1: Dependency Conflicts
Installing YUM may trigger dependency conflicts. In such cases, manually installing the required libraries or packages with APT resolves the issue.
sudo apt-get install <library-name>Error 2: Package Not Found
If the package you are trying to install with YUM cannot be found, verify your repository configuration. Ensure that the YUM repository for Ubuntu is properly set and add new repositories if necessary.
8. Conclusion and Future Outlook
This article explained how to use YUM on Ubuntu and why it may be necessary. Although YUM is primarily used in Red Hat-based systems, it remains valuable for specific use cases on Ubuntu. However, for most users, APT—the standard package management tool—is the most efficient option.
In the future, as more packages become available through APT repositories, the need for YUM may diminish. For now, though, it continues to serve practical purposes under certain conditions.
