Package managers

In Linux, a package manager is a collection of software tools that automate the process of installing, upgrading, configuring, and removing software. A package manager maintains a database of information about installed packages (called the package database) that enables the package manager to uninstall software, establish whether a new package’s dependencies have been met, and determine whether a package you’re trying to install has already been installed.

Here is a list of the major functions of a packet manager:

• verifying file checksums to ensure the validity of the installed software.
• verifying digital signatures to authenticate the origin of packages.
• upgrading software with latest versions.
• managing dependencies to ensure a package is installed with all packages it requires.
• creating binary packages.

Two major versions of package management tools exist:

• RPM Package Manager (RPM)
• Debian package manager