Rsync -av vs. Rsync -avn

Attribute	Rsync -av	Rsync -avn
Archive mode	Yes	Yes
Verbose output	Yes	Yes
Preserve permissions	Yes	Yes
Preserve timestamps	Yes	Yes
Dry run	No	Yes

Introduction

Rsync is a powerful tool used for syncing files and directories between two locations. It is commonly used for backup and mirroring purposes. When using Rsync, users have the option to specify various options to customize the behavior of the synchronization process. Two commonly used options are -av and -avn. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Rsync -av and Rsync -avn to help users understand the differences between the two.

Rsync -av

Rsync -av is a commonly used option that stands for "archive" and "verbose." When using -av, Rsync will preserve the permissions, timestamps, and other attributes of the files being synced. This option is useful when users want to maintain the integrity of the files and directories being synchronized. The verbose flag (-v) provides detailed information about the synchronization process, making it easier for users to track the progress and identify any potential issues.

One of the key benefits of using Rsync -av is that it allows users to sync files and directories efficiently while preserving their attributes. This option is ideal for tasks where maintaining the integrity of the data is crucial, such as backups and mirroring. By using -av, users can ensure that the files and directories are synced accurately without losing any important metadata.

However, one potential drawback of using Rsync -av is that it does not perform a dry run by default. A dry run allows users to simulate the synchronization process without actually making any changes to the destination. This can be useful for verifying the synchronization settings before executing the command. Without a dry run, users may accidentally overwrite or delete files when running Rsync -av.

Rsync -avn

Rsync -avn is a variation of the -av option that includes an additional flag for performing a dry run. The "n" flag stands for "dry run," which allows users to simulate the synchronization process without actually making any changes to the destination. This can be useful for verifying the synchronization settings and ensuring that the command will behave as expected before executing it.

By using Rsync -avn, users can benefit from the same attributes as -av, such as preserving file attributes and providing verbose output, while also having the ability to perform a dry run. This can help users avoid accidental data loss or corruption by allowing them to review the changes that would be made during the synchronization process.

One of the key advantages of using Rsync -avn is that it provides an extra layer of safety when syncing files and directories. By performing a dry run, users can catch any potential issues or mistakes before they occur, reducing the risk of data loss or unintended changes. This can be particularly valuable for users who are syncing critical data or working in environments where mistakes can have serious consequences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Rsync -av and Rsync -avn are valuable options for syncing files and directories with Rsync. While Rsync -av is ideal for maintaining the integrity of the data being synchronized, Rsync -avn offers the added benefit of performing a dry run to verify the synchronization settings. Users should consider their specific needs and requirements when choosing between the two options to ensure that they achieve the desired outcome without risking data loss or corruption.