Synaptic Package Manager Error: 'dpkg --configure -a'

cerc · 08-31-2007, 08:25 PM

For some reason when I attempt to open synaptic package manager or add/remove, I get the following error:

E: dpkg was interrupted, you must manually run 'dpkg --configure -a' to correct the problem.
E: _cache->open() failed, please report.

I've read several other forums, all suggesting to run

sudo 'dpkg --configure -a'

in terminal. In doing so I get command not found. I found on the same thread the following suggestion:

cd /var/lib/dpkg/updates
rm *

When I do this in terminal, I get: rm: remove write-protected regular file `0000'?
What am I supposed to do at this point? If I type yes I get a permission denied message.

I've had Ubuntu for a very short time, and am increasingly frustrated with the errors and difficulty I'm having with installations. If anyone can help me with this error message, I will be most grateful.

AwesomeMachine · 09-02-2007, 06:14 AM

su to root user like so:

>su
root password

the do
>locate dpkg | less

find the dpkg command's path, and type the whole thing on the command line

archtoad6 · 09-03-2007, 08:18 AM

I don't think that's going to work, unless he has enabled a root password -- not the default in an Ubuntu installation.

What should work is this:

Code:

$ sudo su  
<your_regular_user_password>

# whereis dpkg

Since both my SimplyMEPIS 3.3.2 & 6.0 systems show
/usr/bin/dpkg
I have every reason to believe that that's the right answer for Ubuntu also.

OP, try:

Code:

sudo dpkg --configure -a

-- I don't think sudo needs the quotes.

Also, would you please post (by pasting) your key commands & error msgs.?

archtoad6 · 10-04-2007, 11:35 AM

Would you please post your results.

We answer your Q's here, not just to help you, but others w/ the same or similar problems. It's helpful for all to know what worked (or didn't work).

salavin · 10-10-2007, 06:22 PM

the same thing almost.must run command 'sudo dpkg --configure -a' etc...but my problem is that the package can't be downloaded, not even in terminal window.what should i do?i tried what u see down, but even with root account i can't repair the faulty synoptic package.i can't enter at all. advices?
root@salavin-desktop:~# passwd root
Enter new UNIX password:
Retype new UNIX password:
passwd: password updated successfully
root@salavin-desktop:~# /var/lib/dpkg/status file
-bash: /var/lib/dpkg/status: Permission denied
root@salavin-desktop:~#