ssh-apt-show-holds

Lists APT packages that are held on a remote host via SSH.

6|Updated Apr 17, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Nightreaver/python-ssh-mcp --skill ssh-apt-show-holds
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ssh-apt-show-holds
Source: https://github.com/Nightreaver/python-ssh-mcp/tree/main/skills/ssh-apt-show-holds
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Nightreaver/python-ssh-mcp --skill ssh-apt-show-holds

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides an easy way to view the list of APT packages that are currently held (pinned) on a remote host, allowing users to audit package pinning and confirm the outcome of package operations.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • List Held Packages: Display the full list of held APT packages on a remote host.
  • Audit Package Pinning: Check which packages have been pinned before and after maintenance.
  • Confirm Operations: Verify that a package pinning operation like ssh_apt_mark has been successful.

Quick Start

Use the ssh-apt-show-holds skill to list the held packages on the host 'web01'.

Frequently Asked Questions about ssh-apt-show-holds

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I list held APT packages on a remote host?

You can list held APT packages on a remote host by executing an SSH command to query the package manager. This Skill retrieves the full list of pinned packages on Debian-based systems for auditing.

What are held packages in apt and when should I check them?

Held packages in apt are updates pinned to prevent automatic upgrades during system maintenance. You should check them to audit package pinning and confirm the outcome of package operations.

Does listing held packages via SSH require any special dependencies?

Listing held packages via SSH requires active SSH access to the target host and the apt package manager installed. It is designed for Debian-based systems to audit package pinning.

Can I verify package pinning operations on a Debian remote host?

You can verify package pinning operations on a Debian remote host by listing the currently held packages. This confirms whether an operation like apt mark hold was applied successfully.

What is the best way to audit package pinning before and after maintenance?

The best way to audit package pinning is to list held APT packages on the remote host before and after maintenance. This verifies which packages remain pinned and confirms operation outcomes.