====== Working with Aptitude ======

Apt is a command line utility used in Ubuntu to manage software packages. It uses a list of available software and where to get it.

It must be run as sudo:

''sudo apt-get check''

This example checks for any problems in currently installed programs.

There are many ways to install software under Linux, but there are several advantages to apt:

    * Automatic dependancy resolution: Any packages required are automatically downloaded and installed.
    * Automatic updates: Apt allows for any software installed to be upgraded to newer versions.

===== Installing software =====

The most common use for apt is to install new software:

''sudo apt-get install packagename''

Any required dependancies are resolved and you are asked if you wish to proceed. You will also be told if any problems might arise.

===== Removing software =====

To remove a package:

''sudo apt-get remove packagename''

If you wish to remove a package and all its dependancies:

''sudo apt-get autoremove packagename''

Lastly if you want to remove any configuration files then:

''sudo apt-get --purge autoremove packagename''

===== Package maintainance =====

You can update your source lists (what software is available) b:

''sudo apt-get update''

Available upgradescan be shown by typing:

''sudo apt-get upgrade''

Or upgrade the entire distribution using

''sudo apt-get dist-upgrade''

To free up disk space by running

''sudo apt-get autoclean''

This removes deb packages for uninstalled applications, you can remove them for installed packages using:

''sudo apt-get clean''

Lastly, you can reconfigure an installed package by running:

''dpkg-reconfigure packagename''

===== Optimize download =====

You can increase the download speed when using apt in Ubuntu 7.10 by finding the fastest available source. First click on **System>Administration>Software Sources**.

Choose Other from the Download From list box then click on the Select Best Server button.