Stone Computers Knowledgebase

Smoothwall Won't Install Updates: How to Clean up the Update Cache

Article ID: 551
Last updated: 24 Mar, 2016
Article ID: 551
Last updated: 24 Mar, 2016
Revision: 3
Views: 838
Posted: 24 Mar, 2016
by Andrew Sharrad
Updated: 24 Mar, 2016
by Andrew Sharrad

Problem

When you try and install Smoothwall updates, the system briefly displays a window showing that files are being downloaded, before telling you that updates cannot be installed. Even if you reboot the system, you still cannot install updates or new releases.

Cause

The cause is usually related to the update cache and the installation of previous updates.

Resolution

To check that you are affected by this issue, connect to the Smoothwall unit using PUTTY. By default, the SSH port to connect to Smoothwall systems is port 222.

  • Go into the /var/log directory using cd /var/log
  • Review the update logfile using vim smoothwall-apt.log
  • This should tell you that an update cleanup is required using the dpkg --configure -a command.
  • If confirmed, run dpkg --configure -a

You will then be able to install updates, usually without requiring another reboot.

Reminder: Most major updates, and all releases, will require a reboot to take effect. Plan for extended downtime as the Smoothwall may perform a disk check during the reboot if a disk check has not be performed for some time.

  

Applies to:

  • Smoothwall systems

This article was:  
Article ID: 551
Last updated: 24 Mar, 2016
Revision: 3
Views: 838
Posted: 24 Mar, 2016 by Andrew Sharrad
Updated: 24 Mar, 2016 by Andrew Sharrad