This step-by-step troubleshooting guide will help you resolve the make: *** no rule to make target 'install'. stop. error that occurs during the compilation and installation of a software package from source code. This error typically indicates that the Makefile doesn't have a target rule named install. Follow the steps below to resolve this issue.
Prerequisites
Before proceeding with the troubleshooting steps, ensure that you have the following installed in your system:
- A compatible version of
makeutility - Necessary development tools and libraries for the software package
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Verify the Installation Instructions
- Step 2: Check the Makefile for the Install Target
- Step 3: Look for an Alternative Makefile
- Step 4: Manually Create the Install Target
- FAQs
Step 1: Verify the Installation Instructions
Before diving into the Makefile, make sure to carefully read the installation instructions provided in the software package. The installation steps may vary depending on the package, so it's essential to follow the instructions as closely as possible. Look for a README or INSTALL file in the package directory and follow the steps mentioned.
Step 2: Check the Makefile for the Install Target
Open the Makefile in a text editor and search for a target named install. If you find it, ensure that it's not commented out. If the install target is missing, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Look for an Alternative Makefile
In some cases, the software package may include more than one Makefile. These alternative Makefiles may have different names, such as Makefile.install, Makefile.src, or Makefile.local. Check the package directory for any such files and verify if they contain an install target. If you find a suitable alternative Makefile, use it with the -f flag:
make -f Makefile.alternative install
Step 4: Manually Create the Install Target
If none of the above steps work, you can create an install target manually in the Makefile. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the
Makefilein a text editor. - At the end of the file, add the following lines:
install:
cp binary_name /usr/local/bin/
Replace binary_name with the appropriate name of the compiled binary generated by the make command.
- Save the
Makefileand runmake installagain.
If the above steps don't resolve the issue, refer to the software package's documentation, forums, or issue trackers for further assistance.
FAQs
Q1: What does the make: *** no rule to make target 'install'. stop. error mean?
The error make: *** no rule to make target 'install'. stop. indicates that the Makefile doesn't have a target rule named install. This target is usually responsible for installing the compiled software binaries and associated files in the appropriate system directories.
Q2: How do I check if the install target is available in the Makefile?
Open the Makefile in a text editor and search for a target named install. If you find it, ensure that it's not commented out.
Q3: Can I use an alternative Makefile with a different name?
Yes, you can use an alternative Makefile with a different name. To do so, use the -f flag with the make command, like this:
make -f Makefile.alternative install
Q4: How do I manually create an install target in the Makefile?
To manually create an install target in the Makefile, open the file in a text editor and add the following lines at the end:
install:
cp binary_name /usr/local/bin/
Replace binary_name with the appropriate name of the compiled binary generated by the make command.
Q5: What should I do if none of the steps in this guide resolve the issue?
If none of the steps in this guide resolve the issue, refer to the software package's documentation, forums, or issue trackers for further assistance.