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CKAN

github.com

  • Free
  • Windows
  • Linux
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What it is

CKAN lets Kerbal Space Program players manage mods without a fee. Its clients run on Windows, macOS, and Linux through graphical, console, and command-line interfaces. Metadata guides version selection, dependency installation, compatible files, and conflict checks. It can recover the GameData folder after a failed installation and supports portable use.

Good, and not so good

  • No-cost project under the MIT license
  • Installs dependencies and checks mod conflicts
  • Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux
  • Can restore GameData after a failed install
  • Offers graphical, console, and command-line interfaces
  • Newer macOS releases default to the console UI
  • Relies on mod metadata being accurate
  • Exact game-version matching is the default

Who it suits

Players maintaining Kerbal Space Program mod collections Mod authors maintaining CKAN metadata Users on Windows, macOS, or Linux

For Kerbal Space Program mod setups, CKAN is a practical choice when dependency handling and version checks matter. The software has no cost, runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and can operate as a portable copy. The rollback option adds protection when an install goes wrong. Newer macOS users should expect the console interface, and everyone depends on accurate metadata from mod authors. Choose CKAN when you want one tool to discover, install, update, and organize KSP mods without a subscription.

Plans

  • CKANOpen source · MIT-licensedFree

As github.com lists them, read 10 Oct 2026.

Questions

What game does CKAN manage?
CKAN helps users find, install, update, and manage mods for Kerbal Space Program.
Where can CKAN run?
Windows, macOS, and Linux can run CKAN. Packages are available for several Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, openSUSE, and Arch-based systems.
Does CKAN handle mod dependencies?
Yes. CKAN installs listed dependencies, checks compatibility with the game version, and identifies conflicting mods.
Can CKAN undo a failed installation?
Yes. If an installation goes wrong, CKAN reverts the GameData directory to its previous state.
Is CKAN free?
Yes. CKAN has no cost, is open source and MIT-licensed, and offers no free trial because there is no paid plan.
Why is the CKAN console interface default on newer macOS?
On macOS 10.15 and later, the GUI depends on a 32-bit WinForms application in Mono, whose 32-bit support Apple discontinued.
How can I get help with CKAN?
The project points users to troubleshooting documentation, GitHub issues, and its Discord server.