If you've used a Debian-based Linux system like Ubuntu, chances are you've bumped into the apt-get command, maybe during an installation guide or while trying to update your machine. It's one of those tools that feels simple once you get the hang of it, but it's doing a lot under the hood.

For new users, it can seem like just another command. For experienced users, it's part of everyday work. This article breaks it down with clear examples and plain language so you understand what it does, how to use it, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What is apt-get?

The apt-get command is a package management tool for Debian and Debian-based distributions, such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Kali Linux. It's a command-line interface used to handle packages. In Linux terms, a "package" is essentially an archive that contains all the files necessary to install a piece of software, along with metadata such as dependencies, configuration files, and version information.

The command works with the Advanced Packaging Tool (APT), which is the actual backend that manages packages on your system. apt-get instructs APT on what to do. Whether installing a new application, updating your system, or deleting something you no longer need, you're generally working with packages. And apt-get is the interface between you and that system.

Basic apt-get Command Syntax

Every apt-get command follows a basic structure. You start with sudo because changing packages requires administrator permissions. Then comes apt-get, followed by an action like install, update, or remove, and then the name of the package.

Here's the general syntax:

sudo apt-get [action] [package-name]

For example, to install VLC media player:

sudo apt-get install vlc

In most cases, sudo is required because you're making changes to the system, such as installing or removing software. If you skip it, the terminal will probably remind you with a permissions error.

Commonly Used apt-get Commands With Examples

Let's go over the most used apt-get commands with short explanations and examples that show how they work in practice.

Update Package Lists

sudo apt-get update

This command doesn’t update the software itself—it updates the package lists from the repositories. It’s like refreshing the index so your system knows what’s available to install or upgrade. Always run this before installing or upgrading anything.

Upgrade Installed Packages

sudo apt-get upgrade

This command installs the newest versions of all currently installed packages. It uses the data fetched by apt-get update. If there are any newer versions of the installed software, this command will install them.

Install a Package

sudo apt-get install gimp

Installs GIMP, a graphics editing program. If GIMP depends on other packages, those will be installed automatically.

Remove a Package

sudo apt-get remove gimp

This removes GIMP but leaves its configuration files intact. If you reinstall it later, your old settings may still be there.

Remove Package Completely

sudo apt-get purge gimp

Same as remove, but it also deletes all config files related to GIMP. It's a full cleanup.

Clean Up Downloaded Package Files

sudo apt-get clean

After installation, package files are saved locally in case you need to reinstall. clean deletes these to free up space.

Autoremove Unused Dependencies

sudo apt-get autoremove

When you uninstall software, its dependencies often remain even if nothing else uses them. This command removes those leftovers.

Install Multiple Packages

sudo apt-get install curl wget git

This installs several packages in one command. Just separate each with a space.

Simulate an Action

sudo apt-get -s upgrade

The -s option simulates the action. It shows what would happen without making any real changes. Useful for checking before doing something major.

Fix Broken Dependencies

sudo apt-get install -f

If an install was interrupted or a package is missing a dependency, this command tries to repair the damage. The -f stands for “fix-broken.”

Best Practices When Using apt-get

Using apt-get responsibly keeps your system clean, secure, and efficient. It’s easy to use it without thinking, but a few habits make a big difference.

Always Update First: Running sudo apt-get update before installing or upgrading ensures your package lists are current. Without this step, your system might miss newer versions or install outdated ones.

Check What Will Be Removed: Commands like apt-get autoremove or even remove might pull in other packages for deletion. Always read the output before confirming. Sometimes, you may find important libraries or utilities being listed.

Use -S To Preview Actions: If you're not sure what a command will do, try adding -s to simulate it. This is especially useful when removing packages or running upgrades.

Don’t Interrupt Installations: Cutting off an install or upgrade halfway can lead to broken packages. If this happens, you might need to run sudo apt-get install -f or sudo dpkg --configure -a to fix things.

Use Purge For Clean Uninstalls: If you’re not planning to use a piece of software again, use purge instead of remove so you don’t leave behind configuration clutter.

Be Careful With Sources: If you edit /etc/apt/sources.list or add custom repositories, double-check everything. Mistakes here can break updates or introduce insecure packages.

Don’t Rely Only On Apt-Get: While apt-get is solid, newer systems now favor apt, which combines apt-get, apt-cache, and other tools into a simpler command set. Still, apt-get is the foundation and remains important to know.

Conclusion

apt-get has been part of Linux life for a long time. It’s not just a way to install things—it’s how your system stays up to date, how software gets removed cleanly, and how problems with packages are fixed. Once you know the basic commands and when to use them, you’ll avoid common messes and keep things running smoothly. It’s simple at first glance, but the more you work with it, the more you appreciate the control it gives you. It’s worth taking the time to learn, even if most installs are just a few keystrokes long.