dh_assistant - Linux

Overview

dh_assistant is a Debhelper tool that aids in packaging Debian source packages. It provides a user-friendly interface for configuring common package options and automating repetitive tasks, streamlining the packaging process.

Syntax

dh_assistant [--no-interactive] [--quiet] [--force-overwrite] [--show-all]
  (--create | --build | --install | --clean)

Options/Flags

--no-interactive: Disable interactive mode, answering all questions with default values.
--quiet: Suppress all output except errors.
--force-overwrite: Overwrite existing files without prompting.
--show-all: Show all available options, even those not currently relevant.

Examples

Create a new Debian package:
```
dh_assistant --create
```
Build a Debian package:
```
dh_assistant --build --force-overwrite
```
Install a Debian package:
```
dh_assistant --install
```
Clean up build artifacts:
```
dh_assistant --clean
```

Common Issues

Missing dependencies: Ensure that all necessary build dependencies are installed before running dh_assistant.
Incorrect configuration: Verify that debian/control and other package configuration files are properly formatted.
Build errors: Examine the build log (debian/rules.build) for specific error messages and consult relevant documentation for solutions.

Integration

Use dh_assistant with dh:
```
dh -i -a all --with=assistant
```

Integrate dh_assistant into custom packaging scripts:

#!/bin/bash

dh_assistant --create
# ... additional packaging steps
dh_assistant --build

Related Commands

Debhelper suite of tools
dpkg-buildpackage
dpkg-deb
dpkg-query