Automating Debian installations
Command Line – DebPostInstall
© Photo by Garrett Butler on Unsplash
DebPostInstall takes the drudgery out of Debian installations.
At last count, Debian included over 64,400 packages [1]. Much of the reason for this number is the inclusion of multiple versions of packages in different repositories. Another is the packaging of dozens of scripts, often for Bash. There are, for example, several dozen APT-related packages, some of which have been added to APT alternatives such as Nala. So far, the DebPostInstall [2] script has yet to reach the Debian repositories, but it seems only a matter of time and a few more versions until it does. This simple script automates setting up a Debian-derived server, although it is almost equally handy for a desktop machine, and you will undoubtedly want to modify it to meet your needs.
In Debian jargon, post-install scripts are those that run at the end of a package installation, so DebPostInstall is perhaps a misnomer. It does not run from any package, but instead is a Bash script to run after an installation, handling configurations for which frequent installers often maintain a checklist. Although several of its actions duplicate those in the Debian installer, DebPostInstall does have the advantage of offering a chance to modify one of the quick choices of installation.
Setting Up the Script
To use DebPostInstall, copy the script into a text file. Modify it as desired, save it as debpostinstall.sh, and run
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Microsoft Issues Warning About Linux Vulnerability
The company behind Windows has released information about a flaw that affects millions of Linux systems.
-
Is AI Coming to Your Ubuntu Desktop?
According to the VP of Engineering at Canonical, AI could soon be added to the Ubuntu desktop distribution.
-
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Competes with the Best
Framework has released what might be considered the MacBook of Linux devices.
-
The Latest CachyOS Features Supercharged Kernel
The latest release of CachyOS brings with it an enhanced version of the latest Linux kernel.
-
Kernel 7.0 Is a Bit More Rusty
Linux kernel 7.0 has been released for general availability, with Rust finally getting its due.
-
France Says "Au Revoir" to Microsoft
In a move that should surprise no one, France announced plans to reduce its reliance on US technology, and Microsoft Windows is the first to get the boot.
-
CIQ Releases Compatibility Catalog for Rocky Linux
The company behind Rocky Linux is making an open catalog available to developers, hobbyists, and other contributors, so they can verify and publish compatibility with the CIQ lineup.
-
KDE Gets Some Resuscitation
KDE is bringing back two themes that vanished a few years ago, putting a bit more air under its wings.
-
Ubuntu 26.04 Beta Arrives with Some Surprises
Ubuntu 26.04 is almost here, but the beta version has been released, and it might surprise some people.
-
Ubuntu MATE Dev Leaving After 12 years
Martin Wimpress, the maintainer of Ubuntu MATE, is now searching for his successor. Are you the next in line?
