DEB File Extension

What is DEB file?

Files with DEB extension contain Debian software packages used by Unix-based operating systems. Single DEB archive contains two TAR archives. First archive contains control information for the installer, while the second one holds the actual application installation files.

Two TAR archives

The control archive ( control.tar file) stores parent scripts and package metadata (name, version, dependencies, and parent information). The archive uses GZIP or XZ compression.

The data archive ( data.tar file) contains installation files. This archive uses GZIP, BZIP2, LZMA, or XZ compression.

DEB and UDEB files – similarities and differences

UDEB files, also known as ‘micro debs’, share many similarities with DEB files. UDEB files store the almost the same data as DEB, although limited only to essential functional files.

Additional information

1. DEB files are used for storing installation packages.
2. DEB files cane be converted into other installer package formats using a tool called Alien.

Programs which support DEB file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support DEB files. Files with DEB extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 06/03/2023

How to open file with DEB extension?

Problems with accessing DEB may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Debian Software Package files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install 7-Zip software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DEB files is that no program that can handle DEB files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing 7-Zip or different compatible program, such as PeaZip, ZipZag, Synaptic Package Manager. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support DEB files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit 7-Zip website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of 7-Zip and update if needed

If the problems with opening DEB files still occur even after installing 7-Zip, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of 7-Zip is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of 7-Zip installed, it may not support DEB format. The latest version of 7-Zip should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open DEB files to 7-Zip

After installing 7-Zip (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open DEB files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the DEB file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where 7-Zip is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DEB files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the DEB file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with DEB extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the DEB is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper DEB file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The DEB may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the DEB file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the DEB file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the DEB file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with DEB extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Debian Software Package file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run 7-Zip

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support DEB files. Close all running programs and try opening the DEB file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Debian Software Package files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle DEB files.

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