Difference between Ubuntu apt-get and apt: Which one should beginners use?
In the Ubuntu system, both `apt` and `apt-get` are used for package management, but they differ in design goals and user-friendliness for beginners. `apt-get` is an early tool with comprehensive functionality but complex parameters (requiring subcommands like `apt-get install`), making it suitable for experienced users. `apt`, on the other hand, is a newer version introduced after Ubuntu 16.04. It consolidates commonly used features into more concise commands (e.g., `apt install`), automatically handles dependencies, and focuses on beginner-friendly scenarios. The core differences lie in `apt`'s intuitive commands and more intelligent dependency handling, making it the preferred choice for newcomers. Essential `apt` commands for beginners include: `sudo apt update` (updating package sources), `sudo apt install <package-name>` (installing software), `sudo apt search <keyword>` (searching for packages), `sudo apt upgrade` (upgrading packages), and `sudo apt purge <package-name>` (completely uninstalling software). In summary, beginners are recommended to directly use `apt`, as it can cover 90% of daily usage scenarios.
Read MoreMethods for Searching Packages with Ubuntu apt-cache
`apt-cache` is a core tool for querying software package information in the Ubuntu APT system, which can assist in software installation and management. Its core functions include: Basic search is achieved through `apt-cache search <keyword>`, matching package names or descriptions (e.g., searching for "text editor" will find editors like nano and vim); For precise searching, the `--names-only` parameter can be added to match only package names (e.g., `python3` will only display software whose package names contain this term); To view detailed information, use `apt-cache show <package name>`, which can obtain version, installed size, dependencies, etc. (e.g., the version of nano and its dependent libraries). Advanced techniques can be combined with `apt list` to filter installed or upgradeable packages, but it should be noted that: Execute `sudo apt update` to update the source before searching to ensure the results are up-to-date; The keyword needs to be accurate to avoid spelling errors. Mastering the three core commands `search`, `--names-only`, and `show` can efficiently locate and manage software packages.
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