[Date Prev][Date Next] [Thread Prev][Thread Next] [Date Index] [Thread Index]

Re: About using Linuxconf



On Mon, 23 Dec 1996, Shaya Potter wrote:

> 
> I know a few months ago people were saying that linuxconf wouldn't work 
> with debian b/c of the upgradability issue.  I have been talking to the 
> developer and he has as new system called dropins.  There 'dropins' are 
> each like a rc.d script (from what I can tell) except linuxconf has more 
> control over them.  I am including his web page that explains 'dropins' 
> vs. SysV type rc.d scripts.
> 
> Hope this assuages all your fears and maybe convinces you that linuxconf 
> is a good idea.
> 

Its convinced me that its not, although I was a fan of the idea
until I heard this.

SysV init scripts are used everywhere -- not just in linux.  I
think that putting system configuration control in the hands of a
utility such that it is impossible (or even just more difficult
than it is already) to administer systems _without_ the utility
is a bad idea.  I also think that moving away from SysV init
scripts puts linux in a position further away from mainstream
unices, which I also think is a bad idea.  Offering this tool as
a .deb for those who wish to use it is surely a good idea, but I
think it would be a mistake to base the Debian distribution on it
in place of SysV init style startups.

The argument of the simplicity of start/stop scripts is a weak
one.  This surely can be rectified with better start/stop
scripts.  It is a bad idea in general to force people into using
one method over another in regard to administration.  

Having a centralized database of config data is surely a good
thing, but not if it renders standard admin practices useless.  I
think that if Debian chooses to develop/implement such a tool, it
should be distributed with only hooks for it in standard config
files/scripts/locations/etc. and its use optional.

Another $.02.  At this rate, I'll need a second job to pay off my
Xmas debts on the old credit card!

Thanks

Richard G. Roberto
richr@bear.com
011-81-3-3437-7967 - Tokyo, Japan


--
*******************************************************************************
Bear Stearns is not responsible for any recommendation, solicitation, offer or
agreement or any information about any transaction, customer account or account
activity contained in this communication.
*******************************************************************************


--
TO UNSUBSCRIBE FROM THIS MAILING LIST: e-mail the word "unsubscribe" to
debian-devel-REQUEST@lists.debian.org . Trouble? e-mail to Bruce@Pixar.com


Reply to: