Package management software for Linux. Package management software works with the various package formats for Linux, such as RPM, DPKG, or Slackware TGZ. They may aid in the creation or installation of these package formats. Package management is different than installation software. Installation software provides a way for installing individual applications, usually using an interactive front-end. Package managers provide methods for determining what software is installed, where it's installed, and allows the user to upgrade the software on his system.