What are alternatives to cleaning package cache?

When managing a Linux system, it's important to maintain the package cache for optimal performance and disk space management. While cleaning the package cache is a common approach, there are alternatives that can help you manage packages without losing downloaded files. Here are some options:

• Limiting Cache Size: Configure your package manager to limit the size of the cache, ensuring it doesn't grow too large.
• Using Specific Commands: Some package managers allow the option to keep certain cached packages that you might want to reinstall.
• Regular Updates: Regularly update your packages; during this process, only necessary files are retained.
• Utilizing APT: For Debian-based systems, you can use commands to manage the cache without removing everything.
• Using `dpkg`: For more control, manually manage downloaded files using `dpkg` to not disturb the cache.

Utilizing these alternatives can help you balance between maintaining sufficient cache and managing disk usage effectively.