Talk:Linux package formats
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The most popular format for Linux operating systems is the Red Hat Package Manager (or RPM). It is used by SUSE, Red Hat and Mandrake distributions, among others. The Debian Linux distribution and others based on it use deb packages. Solaris uses the pkg format for packages; HP-UX uses software depots. Programs that manipulate these packages are called package management systems.
In contrast, Gentoo uses the Portage system, and FreeBSD uses a collection of ports. These are not packages, but rather a set of instructions that permit the administrator to compile each piece of software to their own specficiations, while at the same time managing upgrades and requirements. This sort of software management is unique and not common.
