In Linux, what is RPM, and how do I use it to install software?

RPM (RPM Package Manager) is a popular utility for installing software on Unix-like systems, particularly Red Hat Linux. The following is an example of how to use RPM:

1. Log in as root, or use the su command to change to the root user at the workstation on which you want to install the software.
   
   
2. Download the package you wish to install. The package will be named something like DeathStar0_42b.rpm.
   
   
3. To install the package, enter the following command at the prompt: rpm -i DeathStar0_42b.rpm

   If you are upgrading from an earlier version of the software package, run RPM in upgrade mode, as in the following example: rpm -U DeathStar0_42b.rpm

For more information, see the RPM.org web site. You can also view the manual page on RPM using the following command:

Note: Indiana University has a site license covering the use of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) by students, faculty, and staff at IU. For details, see IU's software agreement with Red Hat.

At Indiana University, to get support for personal or departmental Linux or Unix systems, see At IU, how do I get support for Linux or Unix?

Also see:

• What is the X Window System?