Package Manager in Linux: YUM

Linux is an open-source operating system that has gained popularity over the years due to its flexibility and customization options. One of the essential tools for managing software packages on a Linux system is the package manager, which helps install, update, remove, and manage software packages efficiently. In this article, we will discuss the popular package manager YUM (Yellow Dog Updater, Modified) and its role in Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

What does YUM do?

YUM is responsible for updating each package to the latest version, displaying what has happened in past transactions, and managing dependencies when installing, updating, or removing software packages. This powerful tool simplifies the process of managing software packages on a Linux system, making it easy for users to install, update, and remove applications as needed.

Common YUM Commands

Here are some commonly used YUM commands that can be useful for managing software packages:

* `yum install `: Installs a new package or updates an existing one.

* `yum update`: Updates all installed packages to the latest version.

* `yum list`: Displays a list of available packages and their versions.

* `yum remove `: Removes an installed package from the system.

Configuring YUM

The main configuration file for YUM is located at `/etc/yum.conf`, while repository configurations are stored in the `/etc/yum.repos.d/` directory. These files control how YUM interacts with repositories and affects the packages that can be installed or updated on the system.

In conclusion, YUM is an essential tool for managing software packages on Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. With its ability to update packages to the latest version, display past transactions, and manage dependencies, it simplifies the process of installing, updating, and removing applications on a Linux system. By mastering YUM commands and configuration options, users can efficiently manage software packages and ensure their Linux system remains up-to-date and secure.

References

For more information on adding repositories to your system, refer to this article on how to add a YUM repo from Amy Marrich. Additionally, you can explore the official Red Hat documentation for more in-depth guidance on using YUM and other package management tools.

Package manager linux