On Red Hat–style Linux systems that use RPM, how would you correctly install the package file named ipchains-1.3.9-5.i386.rpm from the local filesystem?

Introduction / Context:
On RPM-based Linux distributions (for example, Red Hat, CentOS, older Fedora), software is distributed as .rpm files. Knowing the proper rpm command and flags for installation versus query or removal is essential for reliable package management from the command line.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Package filename: ipchains-1.3.9-5.i386.rpm located locally.
• We want to install or upgrade the package cleanly and see progress.
• We are using the legacy rpm tool directly (not yum/dnf).

Concept / Approach:

Use rpm with the correct action flags: -U means upgrade (install if missing, otherwise upgrade), -i means install only (fails if already installed), -v is verbose, and -h draws a progress bar with hashes. For most operational use, -Uvh is preferred to handle both new installs and upgrades.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Verify installation with rpm -q ipchains. For detailed info, rpm -qi ipchains. To list files, rpm -ql ipchains.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• rpm -qip ...: queries package metadata; does not install.
• rpm -e ...: erases (uninstalls) a package.
• rpm -ivh ...: installs only; works if not installed but will fail on existing installs. The question seeks a correct generic install method; -Uvh is safer.
• rpm -i ipchains*.i386.rpm: wildcard may match unintended files; lacks -v and -h; also install-only (not upgrade).

Common Pitfalls:

• Forgetting root privileges (use sudo).
• Confusing query/remove flags with install flags.
• Using -i when an older version is already installed.

Final Answer:

rpm -Uvh ipchains-1.3.9-5.i386.rpm.