Binary Packages

Binary packages provide an excellent method to distribute packages among several hosts or have a downgrade path in case a package update fails.

• Where to store binary packages: Refer to PKGDIR in /etc/make.conf

• Building binary packages: By specifying the --buildpkgonly switch (short: -B) emerge terminates after building binary packages and placing them in PKGDIR. If you intend to merge a newly created binary package immediately, you better use the --buildpkg switch (short: -b) or add the buildpkg feature to /etc/make.conf.

• Install from binary packages: Add the --usepkg switch (short: -k) to your emerge command line to have it use binary packages whenever possible. It can even be forced to not compile any packages by using the --usepkgonly switch (short: -K).