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How to open DEB files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems

When you encounter a problem with an unknown DEB file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with DEB files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.

  1. 1. DEB File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) DEB file?
  3. 3. How to open DEB file?
    1. 3.1 Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
    2. 3.2 Install a program that supports DEB files
      1. 3.2.1 Programs that support files with DEB extension
    3. 3.3 Check for other possible causes of errors
    4. 3.4 Contact an expert
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

DEB File Extension

File
  • File type Debian Software Package
  • File developer N/A
  • File category Compressed Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) DEB file?

The DEB file format is used to package all software in the Debian Linux distribution. It contains all the files and instructions needed for the software application to install and run on a target computer. DEB files are Linux-specific and follow strict standards that determine how they are organized and compressed, and what information must be included within the file.

DEB files usually have a .deb extension, but some installers might use a different one, like .udeb. Standard archive tools, such as 7-Zip on Windows, can open DEB files because the core of the file is simply an archive file, in either the Gzip or Bzip2 format. DEB files can be opened with any software intended for extracting compressed files.

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How to open DEB file?

In some cases problems may occur when trying to open DEB files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.

Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software

The first thing user should do is to associate application with DEB files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports DEB files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with DEB files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.

In order to open DEB file, focus on steps 1 and 2

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In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with DEB extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.

Step 2 – Install a program that supports DEB files

Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting DEB files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:

Programs that support files with DEB extension

Windows programs
Windows
Linux programs
Linux
iOS programs
iOS

Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors

  • Corrupted storage medium on which the DEB file is stored
  • File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
  • Compatibility issues – check whether DEB extension is compatible with user’s operating system
  • Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file

Step 4 – Contact an expert

If you are still unable to open DEB file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports DEB files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.

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