Debian is a widely used Linux distribution that prioritizes free and open-source software. However, some users need non-free packages, such as proprietary drivers or firmware, to get their hardware fully working.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the correct and safe way to enable non-free repositories and install non-free packages, using su to switch to the root user (instead of sudo).
What Are Non-Free Packages?
“Non-free” in Debian refers to software that does not comply with the Debian Free Software Guidelines (DFSG). These packages may be required for:
- Proprietary Wi-Fi or Ethernet drivers
- GPU drivers (e.g., NVIDIA)
- Firmware for wireless cards or Bluetooth
- Multimedia codecs
Step 1: Switch to the Root User
Debian does not include sudo by default on all systems. If sudo is not available or doesn’t work, you should switch to the root account using:
su
Then enter the root password when prompted.
Step 2: Edit the sources.list File
Once you’re logged in as root, open the APT source list using an editor. If nano works on your system:
nano /etc/apt/sources.list
Step 3: Add contrib, non-free, and non-free-firmware
Modify each line to include the following components:
contrib non-free non-free-firmware
For example, change this:
deb http://deb.debian.org/debian bookworm main
To this:
deb http://deb.debian.org/debian bookworm main contrib non-free non-free-firmware
Step 4: Update the Package List
Still as root, run:
apt update
This refreshes your package index so it can find non-free packages.
Step 5: Install a Non-Free Package
Now that non-free repositories are enabled, you can install packages such as:
apt install firmware-realtek
主要特點 EB-3362-L2C2:
- DM&P 32-bit x86 Vortex86DX3 雙核 1.0GHz SoC
- 2GB DDR3-1600MHz 板載
- SD 卡插槽 x1 (SD、SDXC)、1 Gbps LAN x1、10 / 100 Mbps LAN x1、USB x4 (前置 x2、後置 x1、內置 x1)、有線輸出 x1、RS-232 x2
- 支援 Auto Power On 自動開機
- PXE 網路開機
- DC +8V ~ +24V
- 工作溫度: 0~+60°C
如果想了解相關資訊及需求，請點選訊息於此處 info@icop.com.tw, call your nearest ICOP Branch, or contact our Worldwide Official Distributor.
