Here’s a Slackware FAQ covering common questions about the distribution, its usage, and package management:
- Slackware is one of the oldest Linux distributions, founded by Patrick Volkerding in 1993. It focuses on simplicity, stability, and adherence to Unix principles.
- Slackware is best suited for experienced Linux users who prefer manual configuration and want control over their system. It’s a popular choice for power users, system administrators, and those who appreciate minimalism.
- Slackware uses a simple package management system with tools like
installpkg, removepkg, and upgradepkg to manage compressed tarball packages (.tgz, .txz). There is no automatic dependency resolution, which gives users full control but requires more manual work.
¶ 5. Does Slackware handle dependencies automatically?
- No, Slackware does not automatically resolve dependencies. Users must manually ensure that all required dependencies are installed. However, third-party tools like
slapt-get and sbopkg can provide some level of dependency management.
- SlackBuilds are scripts used to compile and install software from source code in Slackware. You download the script, run it, and the software is compiled and packaged for installation. SlackBuilds.org is a popular repository for these scripts.
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slackpkg is a tool included in Slackware that helps manage packages from the official Slackware repositories. It’s used for installing new packages, upgrading existing ones, and keeping your system up to date.
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Basic slackpkg usage:
slackpkg update # Update the package list
slackpkg upgrade-all # Upgrade all installed packages
slackpkg install-new # Install new packages from the repository
- Yes, Slackware is known for its stability and minimalism, which makes it a popular choice for server environments. Since it lacks unnecessary background services or bloat, it’s ideal for those who prefer to configure everything manually for a tailored server setup.
¶ 10. What’s the difference between Slackware and other Linux distributions?
- Slackware is more minimalistic and hands-on compared to other distributions. It does not automate dependency resolution, and most system configuration is done through editing text files. This is in contrast to distributions like Ubuntu or Fedora, which aim to be user-friendly with automated tools and graphical installers.
- Slackware does not include a default graphical package manager. However, third-party tools like
GSlapt (a graphical front-end to slapt-get) can be installed for users who prefer graphical interfaces for package management.
- Upgrading Slackware can be done using
slackpkg by following the official documentation. Typically, users will need to:
- Sync the repository with the new version.
- Install new packages.
- Remove obsolete packages.
- Upgrade all installed packages.
Detailed steps are available in the Slackware documentation or through community guides.
- Slackware has a dedicated and knowledgeable community. You can find help on:
- The Slackware Documentation Project.
- The Slackware IRC channel and mailing lists.
- SlackBuilds.org also provides documentation for using SlackBuild scripts.
- Contact our linux support team
¶ 15. Why does Slackware not handle dependencies automatically?
- The lack of automatic dependency resolution in Slackware is a design choice to give users full control over their system. It ensures that no unnecessary or unwanted packages are installed and that the user is aware of what their system needs.
- Yes, there is a Slackware Live Edition maintained by Eric Hameleers. It allows users to boot a live version of Slackware from a USB stick without needing to install it. This is useful for testing or recovery.
- Slackware includes several desktop environments and window managers, such as:
- KDE
- Xfce
- Fluxbox
- You can also install other environments like GNOME or MATE via third-party repositories or SlackBuilds.
Slackware Overview
Package Management in Slackware
Slackware History