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Asked: 2024-09-24T19:05:12+05:30 In:

What commands should I use to replace the deprecated apt-key functionality on Ubuntu?

I’ve been trying to keep my Ubuntu system up to date and secure, but I just found out that the `apt-key` functionality has been deprecated. It’s a bit of a bummer since I’ve relied on it for managing repositories for some time now. I know that the transition is designed to improve security and all, but honestly, I’m feeling a bit lost about what to do next.

So here’s the situation: I have several third-party repositories added to my system using `apt-key`, and now I need to replace this functionality before it becomes a bigger issue. From what I’ve read, it seems like Ubuntu is pushing towards the use of trusted.gpg.d and signing keys stored in specific locations, but there’s not a ton of clear documentation out there (or maybe I’m just not looking in the right places).

I stumbled upon a few commands that supposedly could help, but I’m not entirely sure how to implement them correctly. If anyone has a step-by-step or even just some helpful tips on how to transition from using `apt-key` to the new methods, I would really appreciate it!

For example, if I want to add a repository that previously required me to use `apt-key add`, what exact commands should I be using now? And what should I be doing with those GPG keys? Should they be placed in a specific directory, or is there a new syntax or method to follow? I get the gist of managing repositories, but the changes with `apt-key` have thrown me for a loop.

I’d love to hear your experiences! If you’ve navigated this transition successfully, what did you find to be the best practices? Any pitfalls I should avoid? Or even if you just have a favorite command that you rely on these days, feel free to share! I really want to make sure my system is set up correctly moving forward, and I’d be grateful for any insights.

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    2 Answers


    1. To transition from `apt-key` to the new recommended methods for managing third-party repositories in Ubuntu, you need to utilize GPG keys stored in the `/etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/` directory. Instead of adding a GPG key with `apt-key add`, you can download the key using `wget` or `curl` and then save it in the aforementioned directory with a `.gpg` extension. For example, if you want to add a repository key from a URL, you might use the following command:
      wget -qO - https://example.com/repository-key.gpg | sudo gpg --dearmor -o /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/example-repo.gpg. After adding the key, you can continue to add the repository using the standard syntax in your `/etc/apt/sources.list` file or by creating a `.list` file in the `/etc/apt/sources.list.d/` directory.

      It’s important to ensure that all your repository entries are specified clearly, and that you regularly update your package lists with sudo apt update. Avoid mixing trusted software sources to mitigate security issues. If you’ve been using repositories that might have been less secure, it’s advisable to review their legitimacy and consider alternatives if necessary. Stay informed by checking the official Ubuntu documentation and community forums for updates, as there may be additional changes in upcoming releases. This will help you to keep a robust setup while also improving the security of your Ubuntu system.







    2. Transition from apt-key


      Transitioning from apt-key – A Step-by-Step Guide

      It can be a bit tricky moving away from apt-key, but you’re not alone in feeling this way! Here’s a simple way to handle the transition:

      1. Identify the GPG Keys

      First, check which keys you currently have. You can list them with:

      apt-key list

      2. Create the new keyring directory

      With the deprecation of apt-key, you need to create a new directory for keys:

      sudo mkdir -p /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/

      3. Add the new repository’s GPG key

      Instead of using apt-key add, you can directly download the key and save it in the new location. Here’s how:

      wget -qO - https://example.com/repo.gpg.key | sudo tee /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/example.gpg

      Replace https://example.com/repo.gpg.key with the actual URL of the repository key you need.

      4. Add the repository

      Now you can add the repository without apt-key: 

      echo "deb [signed-by=/etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/example.gpg] http://example.com/repo focal main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/example.list

      Ensure you replace http://example.com/repo and focal with the correct repository URL and distribution codename.

      5. Update your package list

      sudo apt update

      Best Practices

      • Always download keys from trusted sources.
      • Keep your keys organized in /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/.
      • Regularly clean up any unused repository files in /etc/apt/sources.list.d/.
      • If possible, migrate keys from apt-key and verify their integrity.

      Feeling confused is perfectly normal, but following these steps should help you transition smoothly. Remember to check the official documentation for any updates or changes. You’ve got this!


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