How to Uninstall Packages and Clean Dependencies on FreeBSD

FreeBSD is a powerful and flexible UNIX-like operating system that offers extensive package management capabilities. Over time, as software is installed and removed, unused dependencies can accumulate, consuming unnecessary disk space and potentially impacting system performance. This guide explores how to properly uninstall packages and clean up dependencies on FreeBSD using both the traditional pkg tool and the legacy Ports Collection.

Understanding FreeBSD Package Management

FreeBSD provides two primary methods for managing software:

1. Binary Packages (pkg) – A modern package management system that allows users to install, upgrade, and remove precompiled software.
2. Ports Collection – A more customizable method that allows users to compile software from source with specific options.

Both methods require periodic maintenance to keep the system lean and efficient.

Uninstalling Packages with pkg

The pkg tool simplifies package management, including removal. To uninstall a package, use:

pkg delete package_name

For example, to remove vim:

pkg delete vim

Removing Packages and Their Unused Dependencies

By default, pkg delete does not remove dependencies that are no longer needed. To remove a package along with its unused dependencies, use:

pkg autoremove

This command scans the system for orphaned dependencies (libraries or programs no longer required by any installed package) and removes them.

Cleaning Up Leftover Files

Even after removing a package, some configuration files and logs might remain. To check for residual files:

pkg info -l package_name

If any files remain, manually delete them using:

rm -rf /path/to/file_or_directory

Additionally, FreeBSD maintains package metadata in /var/db/pkg/. If you encounter inconsistencies, you can clean up the package database with:

pkg check -d

Uninstalling Ports and Cleaning Dependencies

For users who install software via the Ports Collection, uninstallation requires the make deinstall command:

cd /usr/ports/category/portname
make deinstall

For instance, to remove vim installed from Ports:

cd /usr/ports/editors/vim
make deinstall

Removing Unused Dependencies from Ports

To clean up dependencies installed via Ports that are no longer needed:

pkg autoremove

Additionally, the portmaster utility can be used for thorough cleaning:

portmaster --clean-distfiles

To remove orphaned ports:

portmaster --check-depends

Cleaning Distfiles and Temporary Files

When compiling software from source using Ports, downloaded source tarballs accumulate in /usr/ports/distfiles/, consuming disk space. To remove them:

rm -rf /usr/ports/distfiles/*

Alternatively, use:

portsclean -D

To remove outdated or unnecessary files related to installed ports:

portsclean -C

Checking for Orphaned Libraries

Over time, shared libraries may become orphaned when packages are removed. To identify orphaned libraries:

ldd /usr/local/bin/* | grep 'not found'

To remove unused libraries:

pkg autoremove

or manually delete unreferenced libraries from /usr/local/lib/.

Keeping the System Clean and Updated

Regular maintenance prevents clutter and improves system efficiency. Here are some best practices:

1. Periodically remove unnecessary packages:

   pkg delete package_name
   

2. Regularly clean up dependencies:

   pkg autoremove
   

3. Delete outdated distfiles:

   portsclean -D
   

4. Check for orphaned files and libraries:

   pkg check -d
   

Conclusion

Managing installed packages and cleaning dependencies on FreeBSD is essential for maintaining system efficiency. By using pkg, the Ports Collection, and additional cleanup tools like portmaster and portsclean, you can ensure that your system remains lean and clutter-free. Regular maintenance not only conserves disk space but also helps avoid potential conflicts and performance issues.