macOS Sequoia Ditches Aging Rsync for OpenBSD’s OpenRsync
Apple’s latest macOS Sequoia update replaces the outdated Rsync file transfer tool with OpenRsync, an implementation originating from the OpenBSD project. This move marks a significant shift after years of maintaining a version of Rsync that lagged far behind current releases.
Licence Concerns Prompted the Change
The previous version of Rsync included with macOS was version 2.6.9, released in November 2006. While Rsync has been updated to version 3.0 and beyond since March 2008, Apple has not adopted these newer versions.The primary reason appears to be a change in licensing. The original Rsync was released under the GNU GPL 2 license, while later versions are under GNU GPL 3. Apple has seemingly opted to avoid the terms of the newer license.
Instead of updating the existing Rsync, Apple has chosen to replace it entirely. The older version received security patches, but lacked the features of the newer Rsync versions.
OpenRsync Offers Modern Alternative
With macOS Sequoia, Apple has transitioned to OpenRsync. This implementation uses a BSD-style license,specifically the ISC license,avoiding the GNU GPL license altogether. This allows Apple to update the utility to a more modern version while sidestepping potential licensing conflicts.
Command Remains the Same, Functionality Shifts
From macOS 15.4 onward, the rsync command will act as a symbolic link to openrsync. This allows users to continue using the command they are familiar with, but with the updated OpenRsync tool handling the file transfers. However, documentation indicates that OpenRsync supports only a subset of the parameters available in current Rsync versions.
Petr Hercík pointed out this change.
# macOS Sequoia Ditches Aging Rsync for OpenBSD’s OpenRsync: A Extensive Guide
## what’s New in macOS Sequoia Regarding File Synchronization?
macOS Sequoia, the latest version of Apple’s operating system, has replaced the older Rsync file transfer tool with OpenRsync, an implementation from the OpenBSD project. This is a considerable shift, as Apple had previously maintained an outdated version of Rsync for many years.
## Why Did Apple Switch from Rsync to OpenRsync?
The primary driver behind this change appears to be licensing concerns. The original Rsync was released under the GNU GPL 2 license. Later versions moved to the GNU GPL 3 license. It truly seems Apple chose to avoid the newer license’s terms.
## What Version of Rsync Was Used in Previous macOS Versions?
The previous version of Rsync used in macOS, released in November 2006, was version 2.6.9. Apple did not adopt newer versions, even though Rsync was updated to version 3.0 and beyond starting in March 2008.
## What is openrsync?
OpenRsync is an choice implementation of the rsync protocol that originated from the OpenBSD project. It’s a command-line tool used for transferring and synchronizing files.
## How Does OpenRsync differ From the Original Rsync?
OpenRsync is licensed under a BSD-style license (specifically the ISC license), avoiding the GNU GPL license altogether. This shift allows Apple to update the utility to a more modern version without potential licensing conflicts. The original Rsync implementation was getting outdated and was lacking in features that later versions of rsync offered.
## will the `rsync` Command still Work in macOS Sequoia?
Yes, the `rsync` command will remain available. Though, starting with macOS 15.4, it will act as a symbolic link to the OpenRsync tool.This allows users to continue using the familiar command.
## are There Any Differences in Functionality Between the Old Rsync and OpenRsync?
Yes, while the command name remains the same, there are some functionality shifts. The documentation states that OpenRsync may only support a subset of the parameters available in current Rsync versions. So, some advanced features you might be used to could be missing.
## What is the benefit of This Change for macOS Users?
This switch allows apple to update to a more modern version of the file transfer tool while sidestepping licensing issues. It provides users with the latest security patches and some improved functionalities.
## What License Does OpenRsync Use?
OpenRsync uses a BSD-style license: specifically, the ISC license.
## Summary of Key Differences:
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences as per the provided document:
| Feature | Original Rsync (Prior to macOS Sequoia) | OpenRsync (macOS Sequoia) |
|---|---|---|
| Version | 2.6.9 (released November 2006) | Implementation from OpenBSD |
| License | GNU GPL 2 (older versions); GNU GPL 3 (newer versions) | ISC (BSD-style) |
| Features | Lacked some new features and updates | Potentially a more up-to-date version, although parameter support might be limited |
| Command | rsync | rsync (symbolic link to openrsync) |
