On Feb 16, 2010, at 10:29 AM, Noah wrote: > what is the most recommended way to install perl modules on OSX? directly > from CPAN via perl or shall I install them from MACports?
Before you install anything you will need to make sure that you have Xcode installed as that includes all the tools needed for compiling software on OSX. Some CPAN modules may require libraries or headers that are not installed on your system and so you may need to install those yourself or get the libraries from http://opensource.apple.com. If you will be using macports for other software, I would also stick with it for your perl modules. If you want to stick with a stock install of OSX, your not using macports and your using the perl Apple ships with the operating system I highly recommend using local::lib instead of installing modules directly into the system. This way the modules you use and the ones shipped with the OS and upgraded by Apple remain distinct. I have not found any drawbacks yet to using local::lib and you can install either the latest CPAN or CPANPLUS and use either version to maintain, install or upgrade your existing perl modules. - Brian
