.DEB File Type
File extension: DEB or .deb
Author of the .deb file extension:
Category: Compressed files
Programs that use the .deb file type: Debian Package Management System (Linux) and 7-Zip Archiver (Windows)
Explanation of .deb file extensions:
The .deb file extension stands for Debian. DEB files are standard Unix archives containing two archives (bzipped or gzipped) with one archive containing installer control data and the other containing the actual data.
Debian packages are binary packages containing executables, configuration information, and other data. These packages can be uncompressed with the Debian utility called “dpkg.†Windows machines can unpack these packages with the 7-Zip Archiver.
Typical problems associated with the .deb file extension:
One of the most common problems with .deb files is opening them. These are compressed files that require the right type of utility to decompress them. You must either have the Debian dpkg utility or a compatible utility such as the 7-Zip Archiver.
Once unzipped, the data files may be files with varying file extensions. You will need the appropriate applications for dealing with the data files.
Another common .deb problem occurs when the Windows registry contains invalid instructions or has had references to .deb files removed by spyware or other processes.
Solutions/Recommendations:
Make sure that you have the appropriate application for decompressing .deb files. You may need to set the file associations so that Windows understands which application to use whenever it encounters a .deb file.
To set file associations manually, navigate to the .deb archive you need to open and right-click it. Choose OpenWith. Next pick either 7-Zip or the Debian dpkg utility (or another compatible utility) and then mark that as the default program for opening .deb files.
Run a registry cleaner to resolve many common .deb errors.
Associated links:
The Basics of the Debian Package Management System - http://www.debian.org/doc/FAQ/ch-pkg_basics.en.html
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