DEB vs. RPM: both are the files used by the package manager on Linux operating systems. Both of these file packages are used to install different applications and programs. But if we talk about DEB vs. RPM difference, they are different in subtle details.
Let’s take a closer look at DEB versus RPM
| Developed By | DEB was developed by Debian, while RPM by Community and Red Hat |
| Used For | Both of these packages are used to install applications and programs |
| Files | DEB uses ‘control’ files while RPM’s spec’ files to define installable software |
| Conversion | Both packages can convert into each other through an alien command line |
Table of Contents
What is DEB?
DEB file is a software package used by the Linux distributions based on Debian’s like Linux mint, Deepin, Kali, and many more. The DEB files are mostly used to install or update the UNIX applications. This file contains two more files, one for the installable data and the other for installer control information.
What is RPM?
RPM was developed by the community & Red Hat. It is a file format that the package manager uses to install new software on the computer. A package management tool always comes with the Red HAT-based system, which is used to install the RPM packages. Clear OS, Cent OS, Alma Linux, and Rocky Linux are some RPM examples.
5 Key Differences Between DEB and RPM
| Components | DEB | RPM |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | DEB is an extension or a format of the software package for the Linux distribution Debian | RPM means the Red Hat Package Manager. The Red Hat Package Manager uses this file format. |
| Distribution | Linux distribution which is based on Debian can only install DEB files | The distribution based on Red HAT only installs the RPM packages. |
| Patches | The Debian project community accepts the patches in DEB files | The Red HAT project community does not accept patches in their ROM files |
| Depends upon | DEB files depend upon the ‘control file’ for defining the software which is necessary to be installed for the proper functioning of the target application | RPM files depend upon the ‘spec files’ for the information about the smaller application needed to be installed for proper functioning. |
| Installation | DEB packages are installed in the background mostly, with the help of tools like graphical equivalent or apt. | A New RPM package can be installed with the help of the RPM package manager tool, which comes with a Red HAT-based system. |
| Examples | Kali, Parrot OS, Deepin, Linux Mint, Ubuntu | Clear OS, Cent OS, Alma Linux, and Rocky Linux |
Is Linux RPM or Deb?
There are many ways to determine whether your Linux distribution is using RPM or DEB packages. Run the command user name –r to check your system’s distribution. If it is a Debian-based Linux distribution, then RPM packages can be used to install the needed software. And if it is using the Red HAT system, then the DEB package can be used.
Is Ubuntu DEB or RPM?
Ubuntu Linux can use DEB or RPM file format depending on the distribution. DEB files are the standard for programs and applications in Linux and are also widely used on Ubuntu. Free programs like apt-get can also be used to install the DEB files on the system.
DEB vs. RPM Similarities
- Whether it is DEB or RPM, both packages can be converted into each other with the help of an alien command line.
- Both are software packages used to install new programs or applications in the system.
DEB vs. RPM Pros and Cons
DEB Pros and Cons
Pros of DEB
- DEB is tested thoroughly, and its testing is stable as many other distributions.
- DEB is old software and has a mature community. That’s why many good developers are still using it.
Cons of DEB
- It is not considered user-friendly software because it is for developers and admins. A new user will feel lost while using it.
- You have to go through a long way to get new software updates. So, you can not get new features as soon as other distributions do.
RPM Pros and Cons
Pros of RPM
- RPM can provide straightforward program installation and uninstallation and also provide automatic installation.
- This allows the system administrator and user to install, uninstall and update system software packages in the Linux operating system.
Cons of RPM
- RPM always has the problem with one functionality.
- There is not any automatic dependency handling present within RPM.
Comparison Chart
Comparison Video
Conclusion
DEB and RPM are both archive files with some attached metadata. They both have hardcoded install paths and are also equally arcane. But if we talk about RPM vs. DEB, both are different in many ways. The main difference between RPM and DEB is that RPM is only for the distribution based on Red HAT, while DEB can only be used on Debian-based distribution.
