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How to Install DEB Files on Linux

There are 3 easy ways with which, one can install deb files directly in a debian based system.

  1. Installing DEB Files Using Package Manager
  2. Using APT to Install DEB Files
  3. Using GDebi Package Manager

1. Installing DEB Files Using Package Manager:

The most common and recommended way to install DEB files on Debian-based systems is by using the package manager. The package manager handles dependencies, ensuring that all required software components are installed correctly. Here’s how you can install DEB files using the package manager:

  • Open a Terminal:
    • On Ubuntu and other Debian-based systems, you can open the terminal using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + T or by searching for “Terminal” in the application menu.
  • Navigate to the Directory Containing the DEB File:
    • Use the cd command to navigate to the directory where the DEB file is located. For Example,
cd ~/Downloads
  • Install the DEB File:
    • Use the dpkg command to install the DEB file. Replace package-name.deb with the actual name of your DEB file.
sudo dpkg -i package-name.deb
  • Resolve Dependencies:
    • If there are any missing dependencies, the dpkg command will display an error. You can resolve dependencies by running
    • This command will automatically download and install the required dependencies.
sudo apt-get install -f
  • Verify the Installation:
    • Confirm that the installation was successful by checking for any error messages. Additionally, you can run the following command to see if the software is installed
dpkg -l | grep package-name

Replace package-name with the actual name of the installed software.

2. Using APT to Install DEB Files:

APT (Advanced Package Tool) is a package management system used by Debian-based systems. It makes the process of installing, updating, and removing software easier in debian based systems. You can use APT to install DEB files and automatically handle dependencies.

  • Update APT:
    • Before installing a DEB file, it’s a good practice to update APT to ensure you have the latest package information. Run the following command
sudo apt-get update
  • Install the DEB File with APT:
    • Use the apt command to install the DEB file. Replace package-name.deb with the actual name of your DEB file.
    • The ./ before the DEB file name specifies the local directory.
sudo apt install ./package-name.deb
  • APT Resolves Dependencies:
    • APT will automatically resolve and install any dependencies required by the software.
  • Verify the Installation:
    • Confirm the installation and check for any error messages using the following command.
dpkg -l | grep package-name

3. Using GDebi Package Manager:

GDebi is a graphical tool that even simplifies the installation of DEB files. It not only installs the selected DEB file but also resolves and installs any necessary dependencies packages.

  • Install GDebi (if not already installed):
    • Use the following command to install GDebi
sudo apt-get install gdebi
  • Open the DEB File with GDebi:
    • Navigate to the directory containing the DEB file using the terminal and run
sudo gdebi package-name.deb
  • GDebi Resolves Dependencies:
    • GDebi will analyze the DEB file, resolve dependencies, and prompt you to install any required packages.
  • Verify the Installation:
    • After the installation is complete, you can use the following command to confirm the software installation
dpkg -l | grep package-name

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