APT-Fast is an efficient wrapper for “APT,” the default package manager in Ubuntu, designed to accelerate package downloads by using multiple connections to fetch packages in parallel. By leveraging tools like “aria2” or “axel,” APT-Fast can significantly reduce the time it takes to update, upgrade, and install packages on your system, making it particularly useful for users with slower internet connections or those looking to optimize their package management process.
On Ubuntu 24.04, 22.04, or 20.04, APT-Fast can be installed via the command-line by adding the “apt-fast/stable” LaunchPAD PPA. This PPA ensures you have access to the latest stable version of APT-Fast, providing an easy and reliable way to enhance your package management experience. This guide will walk you through the process of installing APT-Fast on your Ubuntu system, enabling faster and more efficient package handling.
Add APT-FAST LaunchPAD PPA
To begin, access your terminal (Ctrl+Alt+T). Input this command to include the LaunchPAD PPA repository:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:apt-fast/stable -yThis action integrates the APT-Fast stable repository with your system, preparing it for the software download and installation.
Refresh APT Package Index
Following the repository addition, refresh your package list using:
sudo apt updateThis command updates your system’s package list, ensuring it recognizes the newly added APT-Fast repository and is ready to obtain the latest software version.
Install APT-Fast with APT Command
Proceed to install APT-Fast by executing:
sudo apt install apt-fastThe installation initiates several configuration prompts for APT-Fast, allowing customization based on your preferences.
Choosing the Package Manager
During installation, you’ll be prompted to select a package manager. Options include “apt-get,” “apt,” or “aptitude.” For most users, “apt” or “apt-get” are suitable choices. In this guide, select “apt.”
Follow the onscreen instructions to continue.
Setting the Maximum Number of Connections
Next, you’ll decide on the maximum number of connections. The default is 5, but you can adjust it to 10 or 20 based on your network’s strength and personal preference.
If unsure, it’s safe to stick with the default. The guide will later illustrate how to modify this setting.
Downloading Packages Before Confirmation
The last prompt in the APT-Fast installation process concerns the pre-download of installable packages before package manager confirmation. This setting, if enabled, bypasses the usual APT-Fast confirmation dialog.
Make a selection based on your preference.
Configure APT-Fast
Editing the APT-Fast Configuration File
To tailor APT-Fast settings, begin by editing its configuration file. Use a command-line text editor, such as Nano, for this purpose:
sudo nano /etc/apt-fast.conf
Setting the Maximum Number of Connections
Locate the _MAXNUM variable within the configuration file to adjust the number of connections. For instance, setting the maximum connections to 10 is done by:
_MAXNUM=10Choosing the Download Manager
APT-Fast supports different download accelerators, like Axel and Aaria2, which enhance the efficiency of downloading packages. Understanding these options helps you make an informed choice for your system’s configuration.
- Axel: A light and efficient download accelerator, Axel speeds up the process by using multiple connections for a single download. It’s an excellent choice for users looking for a straightforward, minimalistic solution that integrates well with the existing package management system.
- Aria2: On the other hand, Aria2 is a more versatile download utility. It supports various protocols, including HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SFTP, and BitTorrent. Aria2 is known for its flexibility and is suited for users who require a wide range of features and advanced downloading capabilities.
To switch between these download managers in APT-Fast, locate the “DOWNLOADBELOW” line in the configuration file. For aria2, adjust the line to:
DOWNLOADBELOW="aria2c -c -s ${_MAXNUM} -x ${_MAXNUM} -k 1M -q --file-allocation=none"
If you prefer Axel, modify the line as follows:
DOWNLOADBELOW="axel -n ${_MAXNUM}"
Be sure to save your changes after selecting the preferred download manager.
Configuring APT-Fast Mirrors
APT-Fast can leverage multiple mirrors to enhance download speeds. Configure these in the /etc/apt-fast.list file. Open it using nano:
sudo nano /etc/apt-fast.listInside this file, you can add or modify the list of mirrors. For example, you can add the following line to use a mirror from the United States:
deb http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/ $RELEASE main restricted universe multiverseReplace $RELEASE with the codename for your Ubuntu version. For example, if you’re using Ubuntu 22.04, replace $RELEASE with “jammy.” If you’re using Ubuntu 24.04, change “jammy” to “noble.”
After editing, save and close the file.
Basic APT-Fast Commands
Basic Commands
APT-Fast enhances the standard APT commands, streamlining package management tasks. Below are key commands to integrate APT-Fast into your workflow.
To update the package list using APT-Fast, run:
sudo apt-fast updateFor package installation, such as htop, the command is:
sudo apt-fast install htopUpgrade APT-Fast Command
To update all installed packages to their latest available versions, execute:
sudo apt-fast upgradeThis command ensures that your system’s packages are up-to-date, maintaining functionality and security.
Full Upgrade APT-Fast Command
For major version upgrades, like moving from Ubuntu 22.04 to 24.04, use:
sudo apt-fast dist-upgradeThis process can be time-consuming and requires careful attention. Always back up your important data before initiating a distribution upgrade to safeguard against potential data loss.
Conclusion
Installing APT-Fast on Ubuntu through the “apt-fast/stable” LaunchPAD PPA is a straightforward way to improve the efficiency of your package management tasks. By utilizing multiple connections, APT-Fast accelerates downloads, saving you time when installing or updating packages. After installation, you can immediately benefit from faster package management operations, especially during large system updates or upgrades. Regularly updating APT-Fast from the PPA ensures that you continue to experience optimal performance with the latest enhancements and fixes.