Want Newer Packages on Ubuntu 24.04? Meet Backports
Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (Noble Numbat) is built for stability, but what if you need a newer version of a package that’s not available in the default repositories?
That’s where the Backports repository comes in.
In this post, we’ll explore what the backports repo is, why it exists, and how you can safely use it to get newer packages without breaking your system.
What Is the Backports Repository?
The backports repository is a special Ubuntu archive that contains newer versions of software packages taken from future Ubuntu releases, recompiled to work with your current system.
In other words: it’s a way to run newer software on a stable release like Ubuntu 24.04.
These packages are not installed automatically. You opt-in when you want them, ensuring that your system remains stable unless you choose otherwise.
Why Not Just Include the New Versions by Default?
Good question! Ubuntu doesn’t add the latest versions of software into the main 24.04 repository for a few reasons:
- Stability comes first.
- New versions can break compatibility.
- Ubuntu LTS releases prioritize long-term support and predictable behavior.
That’s why new features and major upgrades are kept out of the stable repo unless absolutely necessary.
When Should You Use Backports?
The backports repo is perfect if you:
- Need a newer version of a tool or utility
- Are using a service that recommends installing from backports (like
cockpit) - Want to try new features that aren’t available in the base 24.04 release
But remember, only install what you really need from backports. It’s not meant for system-wide upgrades.
How to Use the Backports Repo on Ubuntu 24.04
Ubuntu includes the backports repo by default, and you just have to tell apt to use it.
- Check Available Versions
Run this command to see if a newer version exists in backports:
apt policy <package-name>
Example:
apt policy cockpit
Look for a version like xxx~bpo24.04.1 under the noble-backports section.
- Install from Backports
If a newer version is available, you can install it like this:
sudo apt install -t noble-backports cockpit
The -t noble-backports flag tells APT to pull the version from backports, not from the stable repo.
Summary: Backports in Ubuntu 24.04
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Repository | noble-backports |
| Ubuntu Version | 24.04 LTS |
| Default Behavior | Enabled, but opt-in |
| When to Use | When you need newer features or tools |
| When to Avoid | On critical systems unless well-tested |
The backports repository is one of Ubuntu’s hidden gems, it gives you flexibility when you need it, without compromising the stability of your base system.