In Linux, what should be done with unnecessary operational packages?

Removing unnecessary operational packages using appropriate commands is essential for maintaining a lean and efficient system in Linux. This practice helps to reduce potential vulnerabilities, as each package can be an attack surface that malicious actors could exploit. By actively uninstalling packages that are not needed, you not only free up system resources such as disk space but also minimize the maintenance overhead for software updates and security patches.

Keeping unnecessary packages installed might seem convenient for possible future needs, but it poses risks without providing sufficient benefits. Disabling packages without uninstallation can leave remnants that could cause conflicts or complications in the future. Finally, the idea that unnecessary packages can be left alone because they require no resources is misleading; even inactive packages can still contribute to clutter and may indirectly affect system performance or security. Thus, the best practice is to effectively remove any operational packages that are deemed unnecessary.