Introduction The error message “Sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1)” indicates a problem with the package installer. This can happen in Ubuntu after a failed software installation, or if the installer becomes corrupted. The key phrase in this error is /usr/bin/dpkg. This refers to the dpkg package installer for Linux. A package installer is an application that tracks software, updates, and dependencies. If it is damaged, any new software installation will cause this error message. We cover several possible solutions, from easily-solved and straightforward solutions to more complex processes. This guide will help you resolve the dpkg returned an error code 1 on an Ubuntu operating system. Prerequisites A user account with sudo privileges A terminal window/command-line ( Ctrl - Alt - T ) Options to Fix sub-process /usr/bin/dpkg returned an error code (1) Method 1: Reconfigure dpkg Database I