Side by side
dpkg vs pkg_add
Both stand on package managers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
dpkg provides core Debian package operations and inspection tools without resolving dependencies for you. Use higher-level Debian tools when dependency installation is required, and treat force options cautiously.
Visit dpkg Free plan
pkg_add provides package installation and updates across OpenBSD architectures with dependency resolution and signature checks. Users must distinguish packages from system distribution sets and should use trusted package sources.
Visit pkg_addThe facts
| dpkg | pkg_add | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Not published |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | wiki.debian.org | man.openbsd.org |
| On package managers | #73 of 93 | #77 of 93 |
dpkg: what it does well
- Free and open-source
- Installs and manages .deb packages
- Supports offline installation
- Tracks package installation states
- Includes audit and verification commands
What to know first
- Does not install missing dependencies
- Force options can damage systems
- Linux platform only
pkg_add: what it does well
- Free package installation and updates
- Resolves package dependencies
- Supports offline installation
- Accepts multiple network protocols
- Verifies signed packages
What to know first
- Cannot install base or comp system sets
- Some packages may lack architecture support
- Unsigned packages are rejected by default
- Package scripts can expose systems to attacks