The error “sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)” typically occurs on Debian-based systems, including Ubuntu, when the package management system encounters a problem. This can be due to a variety of issues, such as broken dependencies, corrupted package databases, or conflicts with packages that are not properly installed. Below, we provide 3 different ways to address and resolve these issues.
There are 3 ways to resolve this issue: reconfiguring the dpkg database, removing the problematic package, or reinstalling the corrupt package. Choose the best solution based on your requirements from this knowledge base.
How to Reconfigure the dpkg Database?
Dpkg manages software packages and takes care of installing and removing them. Dpkg keeps track of the software that is loaded on your computer in a database, just like a library does with its books. This has information about package names, versions, dependencies (other programs they need), and more. If dpkg’s database gets out of sync or damaged, reconfiguring it can help it work again. In this process, the database’s state is reset and the damage is cleared out. To do that executing the below command will help:
sudo dpkg --configure -aThis command attempts to fix issues with the current packages that dpkg didn’t finish configuring.
After reconfiguring, the broken dependencies might still exist. You need to fix them too to complete the process! To do that, execute the below command:
sudo apt-get install -fBroken dependencies occur when installed packages depend on other packages that are either not installed or are damaged. If the above command doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to identify and install the missing dependencies manually. Use the following command to determine which packages are needed:
sudo apt-get checkFor a more detailed look at dependency issues, use: apt-cache depends [package-name]
Tip: If you installed a software package that required a specific library and the library was not installed, running sudo apt-get -f install followed by apt-cache depends [package-name] helps identify and install the missing library.
How to Remove Problematic Packages in Ubuntu/Debian?
Specific software packages can sometimes be the culprit behind these dpkg errors: the error “sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)”. This corruption or incompatibility can happen for various reasons.
For example, a package might be partially downloaded incorrectly or have conflicts with other software on your system. Removing the suspected problematic packages is to be done here to eliminate issues with dpkg.
By removing the problematic software, you eliminate the potential source of the error and allow dpkg to function normally again. This approach is like troubleshooting a faulty appliance in your house. You might isolate a specific device causing a power surge by removing it from the circuit. Similarly, removing a problematic package can help isolate and potentially fix the dpkg error.
To do this, first identify the package that is causing the issue. You can often find this information in the error message or by running:
dpkg --auditImportant to note: While removing problematic packages can resolve the error, it’s crucial to identify the correct culprit. Uninstalling essential system software can cause further problems.
Then forcefully remove the troubled package with the command:
sudo dpkg --remove --force-remove-reinstreq [package-name]Unused or redundant packages can clutter the system and lead to conflicts. After removal, cleanse the system of residual configuration files by using the command:
sudo apt-get autoremoveFor a thorough clean, you can use the command: sudo apt-get clean
Tip: If you installed a beta version of a software package that conflicts with other installed software, removing it with sudo dpkg --remove --force-remove-reinstreq [package-name] and cleaning up with sudo apt-get autoremove can resolve the conflicts.
How to Overwrite Corrupt Packages in Ubuntu/Debian?
Sometimes the root cause of the error “sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)” can be a specific package that didn’t install correctly due to interruptions (like sudden power loss or system crashes) or corruption during download.
A corrupted package installation can leave the dpkg database confused about the package’s state. This can lead to errors because dpkg might not know how to proceed with an incomplete or corrupted package. The solution here is to essentially start over with the package installation again. This can potentially fix the inconsistencies in the dpkg database caused by the previous failed attempt.
To reinstall the package in Ubuntu/Debian, execute the command:
sudo apt-get install --reinstall [package-name]By following the steps in this knowledge base for fixing the error: ‘sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)’, most issues leading to the error can be resolved effectively. If the issue is still not resolved, analyzing the logs will be the only solution.
How to Find Error Logs for Package Installations?
System logs are essentially a record of events and messages generated by your system. They can be like detective notes, containing clues about what happened during software installations, updates, or other system activities. Another log that you can check is the dpkg log, the dpkg log file contains detailed records of all package installations, updates, and removals managed by dpkg.
For system logs, execute both commands to gain insight into what occurred:
sudo tail -f /var/log/syslogsudo grep dpkg /var/log/syslogRun the following command to view the dpkg logs:
sudo less /var/log/dpkg.logsudo grep "error" /var/log/dpkg.logWith these logs and some searches on the internet, you can diagnose and resolve many of the issues that arise with Debian/Ubuntu package management. If the problem remains elusive, consider seeking assistance from online forums and communities such as Stack Exchange, Ubuntu Forums, or the Debian User Forums, where experienced users and developers frequently offer valuable insights and support.
