How to convert and open DEB files
What to Know
- A DEB file refers to a Debian Software Package.
- You can either install one using .dpkg.i /path/to/file.deb or unpack it using 7-Zip.
- With FileZigZag, convert to ZIP, TAR, etc.
This article will explain what a DEB file looks like, how to open it on your computer and how to convert it to a different format such as RPM or IPA.
What is a DEB file?
A file with the DEB extension refers to a Debian Software Package. These files are used mostly in Unix-based OS, such as Ubuntu and iOS.
Each DEB file is made up of two TAR archives that contain executable files, documentation, libraries, and other information. You can compress it using GZIP BZIP2 , LZMA or XZ.
Similar to this format, microdeb files (.UDEB), which include some but not all of the same information as regular DEB files.
DEB Files (Ubuntu).
DEB can also be used to refer to other technology terms like data extent block and debugging, but they don’t relate directly with the file format described here.
How to open a DEB file
Open DEB files with any popular compression/decompression program, the free 7-Zip tool being one example. These programs can decompress the file (extract the contents) and create DEB files.
Some of these file-zip/unzip tools may also work on Linux machines. However, they don’t actually install the package as you would expect. They simply extract the contents of an archive.
Use the gdebi free tool to install a DEB-file. It supports right-clicking and opening the file from the context menu.
Although it is not as simple as using gdebi you can still install one with Dpkg by using this command. Simply replace path/to/file.deb to the path to your.DEB file.
How to Convert a DEB file
FileZigZag is a free file converter that can convert a DEB to other file formats such as TGZ, BZ2, BZIP2, 7Z and GZIP2.
There are many tutorials available online that will help you convert a DEB file into an IPA file. This tutorial is from JailbreakErra . Another tutorial shows you how to install Kodi home theater software on iOS. However, you can modify the tutorial to install a custom DEB file onto an iPhone or other iOS device.
You can install a DEB file to a jailbroken iPhone or iPad using iFunbox.
Still Can’t Open It?
You might have a problem opening your file. This could be because you are using the DEB extension. If this happens, the above-mentioned programs won’t be capable of opening your file.
A DEM file may look similar to a DEB because of the file extensions, but these are more likely Digital Elevation Model files or Video Game Demo files.
EDB is similar to the above, but it does not have anything to do with software packages. Instead, that file extension is reserved only for database files such as Exchange Information Store or Windows Search Index files. Both files are used by Microsoft Windows software.
- Is it possible to install a DEB file onto an iPhone without jailbreaking?
No. You can convert the DEB file into an iOS-compatible format as a workaround. - How can I convert a ZIP file into DEB?
Converter365 is an online tool that converts ZIP files. To convert ZIP files, use Converter365. Select Add Files and then upload the ZIP file. Sites such as Converter365 can convert DEB files into other formats or to DEB formats. - Can I use a DEB file to install on Android?
No. No.
