Do yum still works in RHEL 9

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is one of the most popular and widely used Linux distributions in enterprise environments. With each new release, Red Hat introduces significant changes and improvements to meet the evolving needs of its users. RHEL 9 is the latest major version of this operating system, and it brings several notable changes, including enhancements to package management. One question that arises for longtime users and administrators is whether the trusty old “yum” package manager is still available and functional in RHEL 9.

Understanding “yum” and Its Role

Before diving into RHEL 9’s package management, it’s essential to understand what “yum” is and its significance in the Linux ecosystem. “yum” (short for Yellowdog Updater Modified) is a package management utility used in Red Hat-based Linux distributions, such as RHEL and CentOS. It is primarily used for installing, updating, and removing software packages on a Linux system.

Over the years, “yum” has become synonymous with package management in Red Hat-based systems, making it an indispensable tool for system administrators and users. However, recent releases of RHEL have introduced changes that affect package management, leading to some uncertainty about the fate of “yum.”

The Transition to “dnf”

With the release of RHEL 8, Red Hat started a transition from “yum” to “dnf” (Dandified YUM) as the default package manager. “dnf” is an evolution of “yum” that aims to provide better performance, improved dependency resolution, and a more modern codebase. While “yum” was still available in RHEL 8, Red Hat encouraged users to adopt “dnf” for managing packages.

The Status of “yum” in RHEL 9

Now, with the release of RHEL 9, what is the status of “yum”? Does it still work, or has it been entirely deprecated?

The good news is that “yum” is still available in RHEL 9. Red Hat has not removed it entirely, recognizing that many users are familiar with “yum” and may have scripts and workflows built around it. However, it is important to note that “yum” is considered a deprecated package manager in RHEL 9. This means that while it’s still functional for basic package management tasks, Red Hat strongly recommends using “dnf” for all package-related operations.

How to Use “yum” in RHEL 9

If you prefer to continue using “yum” in RHEL 9, you can do so for now. It can be helpful for transitioning your existing scripts and commands to “dnf” gradually. To use “yum” in RHEL 9, you’ll need to install it explicitly, as it is not installed by default. Here’s how to do it:

1 . Open a Terminal: Launch a terminal on your RHEL 9 system.

2. Install “yum”: Use the following command to install “yum”:

sudo dnf install yum

3. Use “yum”: Once installed, you can use “yum” just as you would on previous versions of RHEL. For example, to install a package, you can run:

sudo yum install package-name

It’s important to remember that while “yum” is available, it may not receive updates or security fixes as actively as “dnf.” Red Hat’s focus is on “dnf” as the future of package management in RHEL.

Benefits of Using “dnf”

While you can continue to use “yum” in RHEL 9, it’s worth considering the benefits of transitioning to “dnf”:

1. Improved Performance: “dnf” is designed to be faster and more efficient than “yum,” making package management tasks quicker and more responsive.
2. Better Dependency Resolution: “dnf” has improved dependency resolution algorithms, reducing the likelihood of conflicts and issues when installing or updating packages.
3. Unified Command Set: “dnf” offers a consistent and unified command set for package management, making it easier to learn and use.
4. Active Development: “dnf” is actively developed and receives regular updates and security fixes, ensuring the longevity of your package management solution.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is “yum” completely removed in RHEL 9, or can I still use it?

“yum” is not entirely removed in RHEL 9, but it is considered a deprecated package manager. You can still install and use it if needed, but Red Hat strongly recommends transitioning to “dnf” for package management tasks.

Q2. What are the advantages of using “dnf” over “yum” in RHEL 9?

“dnf” offers improved performance, better dependency resolution, a unified command set, and active development compared to “yum.” It is designed to provide a more efficient and reliable package management experience in RHEL 9.

Q3. Can I use my existing “yum” scripts and commands in RHEL 9?

Yes, you can use your existing “yum” scripts and commands in RHEL 9 after installing “yum” explicitly. However, it’s advisable to consider transitioning to “dnf” for long-term compatibility and benefits.

Q4. Will “yum” continue to receive updates and security fixes in RHEL 9?

While “yum” is available in RHEL 9, it may not receive updates and security fixes as actively as “dnf.” Red Hat’s primary focus for package management is on “dnf” as the future solution.

Q5. How do I install “yum” in RHEL 9 if it’s not installed by default?

To install “yum” in RHEL 9, open a terminal and run the following command:

sudo dnf install yum

This command installs “yum” on your system, allowing you to use it for package management tasks.

Conclusion

In Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9, “yum” is still available for use, but it is considered a deprecated package manager. Red Hat recommends users transition to “dnf” for all package management tasks due to its improved performance, better dependency resolution, and active development. While you can continue to use “yum” if needed, embracing “dnf” ensures a more robust and future-proof package management solution for your RHEL 9 systems. It’s time to embrace the evolution of package management in the world of Red Hat Linux.