Overview
rpm is a core tool for managing software packages on Red Hat-based Linux systems. It provides functionality for installing, removing, updating packages, and querying information about installed packages on the system. As a low-level package management tool, dependency resolution often needs to be handled manually.
Key Features
- Install and update RPM packages
- Remove installed packages
- Query package information (installation status, file list, metadata, etc.)
- Verify package file integrity
Key Options
The `rpm` command offers various modes and options to perform different tasks. The main modes include installation (-i), update (-U), removal (-e), query (-q), and verification (-V).
Install/Update Options
Remove Options
Query Options
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Usage Examples
Demonstrates various scenarios for managing packages using the `rpm` command.
Install an RPM Package
sudo rpm -ivh mypackage-1.0.0-1.x86_64.rpm
Installs a local `.rpm` file. Dependency issues may occur.
Update or Install an RPM Package
sudo rpm -Uvh mypackage-1.0.1-1.x86_64.rpm
Updates the package if it's already installed, or installs it if it's not.
Remove an Installed Package
sudo rpm -e mypackage
Removes the specified package from the system.
List All Installed Packages
rpm -qa | less
Lists the names and versions of all RPM packages installed on the system.
Query Specific Package Information
rpm -qi httpd
Checks detailed information for the installed 'httpd' package.
List Files of a Specific Package
rpm -ql httpd
Lists all file paths included in the installed 'httpd' package.
Find Package Owning a Specific File
rpm -qf /etc/passwd
Determines which RPM package installed the `/etc/passwd` file.
Tips & Warnings
`rpm` is powerful but is a low-level package management tool. For tasks requiring dependency management, using higher-level tools like `yum` or `dnf` is generally recommended.
Recommended to Use Higher-Level Tools
- Utilize YUM/DNF: `rpm` does not automatically resolve dependency issues. When installing or updating packages with complex dependencies, using package managers like `yum` (older versions) or `dnf` (newer versions) is much more convenient and safer. These tools are built on top of `rpm` and provide dependency resolution capabilities.
Dependency Issues
- Manual Resolution: When using `rpm -i` or `rpm -U`, errors will occur if required libraries or other packages are not installed. In such cases, you must manually install the necessary dependency packages first.
Caution with Force Options
- --force / --nodeps: Options like `--force` or `--nodeps` can compromise system stability and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. They can lead to unpredictable issues on your system.