paccache is a utility for Arch Linux, a popular open-source Linux distribution, used to clean the pacman package cache. Pacman is the default package manager for Arch Linux, and it stores packages that have been downloaded and installed in a cache, to allow for easy updates and reinstalls. Over time, this cache can become cluttered with old and unnecessary packages, which can take up valuable disk space.
paccache is designed to clean the pacman cache by removing packages that are no longer required. By default, paccache removes all but the most recent three versions of each package in the cache, but this number can be adjusted based on the user’s specific needs.
paccache provides a simple and easy-to-use command-line interface for cleaning the pacman cache. With paccache, users can quickly and easily free up disk space by removing old and unnecessary packages from the cache. paccache also provides detailed information about the packages being removed and the amount of disk space that will be freed up.
paccache is an essential tool for Arch Linux users who want to keep their system clean and optimized. By using paccache, users can easily maintain the pacman cache, ensuring that it doesn’t take up valuable disk space and slowing down the system. With paccache, Arch Linux users can benefit from a clean and optimized system, while also enjoying the convenience and ease of use of a powerful cache cleaning utility.
paccache Command Examples
1. Remove all but the 3 most recent package versions from the pacman cache:
# paccache -r
2. Set the number of package versions to keep:
# paccache -rk num_versions
3. Perform a dry-run and show the number of candidate packages for deletion:
# paccache -d
4. Move candidate packages to a directory instead of deleting them:
# paccache -m /path/to/directory