tasksel

tasksel [options] [tasks …]

--help
    Display usage summary.

--version
    Show program version.

--list-tasks
    List all available tasks.

--task-packages task
    List packages in a specific task.

--new-install
    Install tasks from debconf database.

--init-gui
    Launch tasksel GUI frontend.

--install-gui
    Install 'desktop' task via GUI.

--debconf-apt-progress
    Show apt progress via debconf (default).

--apt-cdrom
    Fetch packages from installation CDs.

--test
    Dry-run mode; no changes made.

--section section
    Filter tasks by section.

--list-task-packages
    List all packages across tasks.

tasksel is a user-friendly utility in Debian and Ubuntu systems for selecting and installing predefined "tasks"—bundles of related packages that set up complete functionalities like desktop environments, web servers, or laptop tools.

Primarily used during OS installation via a text or graphical interface, it simplifies complex setups by abstracting package management. Post-installation, run it to add tasks easily. It integrates with debconf for configuration and apt for downloads and installs.

Tasks are defined in /usr/share/tasksel/ with .desc files listing packages, dependencies, and descriptions. Selecting a task (e.g., "desktop") pulls in GNOME, KDE, etc., plus essentials.

Non-interactive use supports scripting and automation, ideal for servers or custom installs. It supports CD-ROM sources and progress reporting. While powerful, it's best for standard setups; advanced users may prefer apt directly.

Requires root privileges. Installs many packages automatically; review tasks first. Interactive by default.

tasksel (interactive menu)
tasksel install ssh-server (non-interactive install)
tasksel --list-tasks (view tasks)

Create in /usr/share/tasksel/: .desc for metadata, .pkglist for packages.

Introduced in Debian 3.0 (Woody, 2002) as part of debian-installer. Evolved with d-i for easier partitioning and task selection; maintained by Debian team for stable releases.

apt(8), dpkg(1), debconf(7), aptitude(8)