3. Mandriva Linux Update

[Note]Note

Mandriva now provides an automatic updates service; see Chapter 20, Mandriva Online Services.

Once again: if you have already worked with Rpmdrake's software installation interface, you should feel comfortable with Mandriva Linux Update. But let us look at the details.

When you launch this tool, it first asks you to choose an Internet repository to check for updates. You should choose one in a country near you.

A small difference to the “Install Software” interface is the ability to choose which kind of update you want to install on your computer by grouping them in certain ways. You may select:

Security updates

These updates solve security issues and should be installed as soon as possible.

Bugfixes updates

These updates fix application misbehavior.

Normal updates

These updates just bring slight improvements.

The other difference is a new text section (Reason for update) inside the package description area. It provides you with information about why this update was made available. This may help you decide if you want to update certain packages or not. When you have a slow Internet connection or you have to pay per MB when you are downloading, it would be wise to read it.

If you are not yet familiar with the interface, please go back to Section 1, “Install Software” to learn about it.