Install RPM Packages on Ubuntu | Linux How-to

Converting RPM Packages to Debian/Ubuntu Format

Typically, software installation on Ubuntu is accomplished through the Synaptic package manager or via apt-get commands executed in the terminal.

However, a significant number of software packages are still distributed exclusively in RPM format.

Utilizing the Alien Conversion Tool

A utility known as Alien facilitates the conversion of packages between different formats.

It’s important to note that successful conversion doesn’t guarantee compatibility with your Ubuntu system.

Prior to installing Alien, certain prerequisite software packages must be installed.

These include gcc and make.

Installation Command

Execute the following command to install Alien along with its dependencies:

sudo apt-get install alien dpkg-dev debhelper build-essential

Converting the Package

To transform an RPM package into the Debian format, employ this command structure.

While sudo may not always be required, it’s included for precautionary measures.

sudo alien packagename.rpm

Installing the Converted Package

Following the conversion, the dpkg utility is used for installation.

dpkg serves as the underlying package management tool for both Debian and Ubuntu systems.

sudo dpkg -i packagename.deb

Finalizing the Installation

Assuming compatibility, the package should now be successfully installed on your system.