An RPM package is a file format used for distributing, installing, and managing software on Linux systems that use the Red Hat Package Manager (RPM). RPM packages contain compiled software programs, configuration files, and metadata such as version information and dependencies. They simplify software installation and updates by automating the process and ensuring all required files are properly placed and configured. RPM packages are widely used in distributions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Fedora, CentOS, and openSUSE. Security professionals often work with RPM packages to deploy security tools, apply patches, and verify software integrity using digital signatures, reducing the risk of unauthorized or malicious software installations.