In this tutorial, we show you how to install and use Synaptic Package Manager on Linux.
Why Use Synaptic Package Manager?
The Synaptic Package Manager is a graphical package manager based on Advanced Package Tool (APT). It is one of the most popular graphical front-ends for the APT package management system used in Debian and its derivatives. Synaptic Package Manager is a great alternative to the Ubuntu Software Center, or any similar software center, for two reasons. First, Synaptic gives you access to all the software that you would find in your software center, plus extra software. Second, it gives you much more control over what you install on your computer. Choose to install specific versions of packages, select which dependencies should be installed, and more. Tip: if your Ubuntu Software Center is not working, we have the fixes here.
How to Install Synaptic Package Manager
For this guide, we are installing Synaptic Package Manager on Kali Linux, though the steps will work for all Debian-based Linux distros too. All you need is a fresh installation of Kali Linux, an active Internet connection, and basic knowledge on Linux commands. If you are new to the terminal, this Linux commandline cheatsheet is all you need.
Step 1: Update Your Repositories
Enter your password if you are required to. The application may ask you to enter Yes or No. Type Y to let the process proceed.
Step 2: Installing Synaptic Package Manager
You have successfully installed Synaptic Package Manager.
Using Synaptic Package Manager
Installing, removing and upgrading packages are some of the basic capabilities of Synaptic. You can also upgrade your system, view installed packages, edit the list of used repositories and fix broken package dependencies.
Installing New Packages
Synaptic Package Manager offers one of the easiest ways to install new packages. (Make use of these methods to determine if a package is already installed.) The installation will take a few minutes, then you will be presented with a pop-up that says, “Changes applied.”
Removing Packages
Like the installation process, removing packages is also pretty simple with the Synaptic Package Manager. The process will take less than a minute, and you will receive a success message. Tip: check out these tools to clean up your Linux system, including removing residual files after packages are uninstalled.
Upgrading Packages
Fixing Broken Dependencies
Compared to the tasks outlined above, this is the simplest. Synaptic Package Manager will automatically fix all broken dependencies. If successful, you should get a “Successfully fixed dependency problems” at the bottom of Synaptic’s window. All screenshots by Allan Ngetich. Aptitude is another interactive tool that runs in a semi-graphical mode. This APT front-end is best designed for admins who are very knowledgable of package management in Linux. If the app does not launch, there is an issue with your Synaptic installation or you do not have the app installed.
