Package management refers to the system and processes used to install, update, and remove software packages on a computer. It is essential for maintaining software dependencies and ensuring that applications run smoothly. Package management systems simplify the management of software by handling tasks such as dependency resolution, which ensures that all necessary components are installed for a program to function correctly.

In Linux, for example, package management involves using tools that can be categorized into low-level and high-level tools. Low-level tools handle basic tasks like installing and removing packages, while high-level tools manage metadata and dependency resolution. Different Linux distributions have their own package management systems, such as apt for Debian-based systems and yum for Red Hat-based systems ².

Effective package management is crucial for developers and data scientists, as it helps avoid issues related to package compatibility and installation errors, which can be frustrating and time-consuming ¹³.