How to Install Package on Debian 12.11?

Installing packages on Debian 12.11 is straightforward thanks to apt, the Advanced Packaging Tool. Whether you’re setting up a development environment, a server, or just trying out some new tools, here’s how to handle packages the right way on Debian 12.11.

Update Your Package Index First

Before installing anything, always refresh your package list:

sudo apt update

This ensures you’re installing the latest version available in your current repository.

Install a Package

Let’s say you want to install htop:

sudo apt install htop

The apt tool will automatically resolve dependencies and ask for confirmation before installing.

Install Multiple Packages

If you want to install several packages at once:

sudo apt install curl wget git

This saves time and handles all dependencies together.

Search for a Package

If you’re not sure about the exact name of a package:

apt search <package-name>

Example:

apt search nginx

It will list available packages with brief descriptions.

Get Detailed Info Before Installing

You can review the details of a package before installing it:

apt show <package-name>

Example:

apt show docker.io

This gives version, dependencies, maintainer info, and more.

Install .deb Files Manually

If you’ve downloaded a .deb file manually (for example, from a vendor site):

sudo dpkg -i ./package-name.deb
sudo apt --fix-broken install

The second command ensures that any missing dependencies are resolved automatically.

Remove a Package

To uninstall something cleanly:

sudo apt remove <package-name>

If you also want to remove config files:

sudo apt purge <package-name>

Clean Up After Installation

Remove unneeded packages and cache:

sudo apt autoremove
sudo apt clean

This helps keep your system lean and clean.