Can I purge configuration files after I've removed the package?

I was doing a package removal with apt-get remove but then realized I should have done a --purge along with it to remove the configuration files.

Can I remove the packages configuration files easily or do I need to reinstall the package and then remove with a --purge?

Solution 1:

Here is a simple command that will meet your request:

dpkg --purge $(dpkg --get-selections | grep deinstall | cut -f1)

Yes you can.

From the command line:

sudo apt-get remove --purge packagename

This will remove all of the remaining files that the package installed.

You can also do this from a GUI:

Install Synaptic from the Software Center
Run Synaptic
Find packages listed under "Not Installed (residual config)"
Right click the package and click, mark for complete removal
Click the check button on the tool bar and click apply when the dialogue pops up.