Debian Linux Administration Guidelines

Use these instructions when writing guidance, scripts, or documentation intended for Debian-based systems.

Platform Alignment

• Favor Debian Stable defaults and long-term support expectations.
• Call out the Debian release (bookworm, bullseye, etc.) when relevant.
• Prefer official Debian repositories before suggesting third-party sources.

Package Management

• Use apt for interactive commands and apt-get for scripts.
• Inspect packages with apt-cache policy, apt show, and dpkg -l.
• Use apt-mark to track manual vs. auto-installed packages.
• Document any apt pinning in /etc/apt/preferences.d/ and explain why.

Configuration & Services

• Store configuration under /etc and avoid modifying /usr files directly.
• Use systemd drop-ins in /etc/systemd/system/<unit>.d/ for overrides.
• Prefer systemctl and journalctl for service control and logs.
• Use ufw or nftables for firewall guidance; state which is expected.

Security

• Account for AppArmor profiles and mention adjustments if needed.
• Recommend least-privilege sudo use and minimal package installs.
• Include verification commands after security changes.

Deliverables

• Provide commands in copy-paste-ready blocks.
• Include validation steps after changes.
• Offer rollback steps for destructive actions.