On Linux Manjaro, when there is a system update and so new config files, these files are saved with the extension *.pacnew; most of the time these config files contains new options: I can check them with the command sudo -H DIFFPROG=meld pacdiff. In this way I can just merge/add the new options instead of completely replace the whole config file.
After a search on Google I read that on Ubuntu, if there are new config files, I will be prompted to replace them, instead of merge/add only the new options. Is it true? There is a way to show diffs and using meld to manage them?
Ubuntu uses Debian package tools, so we’ve the standard features that exist on both systems.
I apply almost all my upgrades at terminal, and expect if I have a system upgrade that changes a configuration file; it’ll detect I’ve modified it from file metadata & I’ll be offered numerous options somewhat like below I’ve obtained from a webpage here.
10.190.113.11 Configuration file `/etc/nscd.conf'
10.190.113.11 ==> Modified (by you or by a script) since installation.
10.190.113.11 ==> Package distributor has shipped an updated version.
10.190.113.11 What would you like to do about it ? Your options are:
10.190.113.11 Y or I : install the package maintainer's version
10.190.113.11 N or O : keep your currently-installed version
10.190.113.11 D : show the differences between the versions
10.190.113.11 Z : start a shell to examine the situation
10.190.113.11 The default action is to keep your current version.
10.190.113.11 *** nscd.conf (Y/I/N/O/D/Z) [default=N] ?
In practice if I get in that position, I may open another terminal (easy using a GUI, otherwise I’ll use another text terminal or if remote start another session) rather than accept the offer to open one in that terminal, then ensure I make a copy of my config, then either opt to accept all changes (package maintainers version) & edit whatever I feel i need into the new configuration, keep my existing (based on what I saw in the provided diff I viewed, & confirmed in my own terminal session). The options you get can vary on release & other details.