Automatix breaks system?

[baracuda68]

I am using Kubuntu Feisty.
I have seen a few threads stating that Automatix2 can break my system.
But it seems itś not explained how.

What downloadable programs break my system, or is it Automatix itself?
I would like clarification before I D/L Automatix.

Thanks.

[palintheus]

Here is a link to a list of automatix threads and what-not discussing the use/non-use of automatix.

http://ubuntucat.wordpress.com/2007/...matix-threads/

[WiseElben]

Numerous debates have risen about Automatix, but in reality, no, Automatix shouldn't break your system. My system did screw up before, when I used Automatix, but I don't know if that's because of Automatix or because of another repo.

But a better question, do you need Automatix? You can install most of the software you need from the official repos and installing other things (such as Flash support, etc) is easy. There are many guides in the How To section of the forums to help you out.

[Arthur Archnix]

Most people report no problems with automatix, but in light of this and the fact that there are better supported ways to install most (all?) applications offered in automatix I'd recommend avoiding it except as a last resort.

Automatix is nothing but a hidden series of sudo's and apt-get installs, except that it does it in a way that *can* in rare circumstances, mess up your system.

It's preferable to just do the apt-get installs yourself. A bit more work, but hey, you'll learn a bit about linux in the meanwhile, and if anything does go wrong, people here will be able to help you.

PS. The link included above, it's from someone you should listen to, before you ignore, so read the link.

[swoll1980]

automatix put a malformed line in my apt/sources.list so I know for sure that it can mess things up

[bodhi.zazen]

If you need automatix assistance we are directing users to the Automatix Forums

This is a technical overview of the issues :
http://mjg59.livejournal.com/77440.html

To my knowledge the maintainers of Ax are working to address these issues, but they remain unresolved at this time. You might check the Ax forums for an update.


This is the official forums policy :
http://ubuntuforums.org/announcement.php?f=13

Supported Installation Alternatives to Automatix :
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=519872
Although there are many additional options ...

Thread closed (to prevent flames)