Install experimental package on debian

[John853]

I would like to install an experimental debian package.

I'm currently having problems with the older version so I figured it's best to upgrade and try that one because I can always switch back. Anyway I want to install this package:

Experimental: http://packages.debian.org/experimental/deluge
Normal: http://packages.debian.org/wheezy/deluge

I have wheezy debian.

[GarryRicketson]

Read this : https://wiki.debian.org/DontBreakDebian

It does not sound like a good idea to me, but do what you want.

[Head_on_a_Stick]

It should be "safe" to attempt an installation from the .deb package using

Code: Select all

# dpkg -i *.deb
# apt-get install -f

Or use gdebi, which will install any dependencies automatically.

If the commands fail then the package needs dependencies that are not available in wheezy and you should either give up, try to backport the package (search for "simple backports debian wiki" for the method) or upgrade to a newer release.

I suppose adding the experimental repository would be OK (it has a pin value of 1 by default) but in this case the package you want isn't there any more. Be aware though that packages are placed in experimental because they may have problems and users are advised not to install them at all; see the Debian wiki page for more on this.

Btw wheezy has reached EOL[1] so you might want to upgrade anyway.

[1] https://wiki.debian.org/LTS/

[bw123]

...
I'm currently having problems with the older version so I figured it's best to upgrade and try that one because I can always switch back.
...

I'd sure be careful, because my figures don't agree with that. A full backup or copy of the entire system (everything) would be smart.

[Bulkley]

. . . I figured it's best to upgrade and try that one because I can always switch back.

That can be very difficult. Don't count on it.

Wheezy is getting quite dated. Why don't you wait a few weeks, skip Jessie and Stretch, and install Buster?

[stevepusser]

And it's been removed from Experimental, anyway.

I seem to remember it will need a newer version of Python to run than Wheezy has, even if you manage to install it.