How to use the command 'cups-config' (with examples)

The cups-config command is an essential tool for users of the Common UNIX Printing System (CUPS), allowing them to easily access and display important configuration and installation information about their CUPS print server. This command provides various flags to reveal the technical details that can assist in system configurations, debugging, and ensuring proper installation. Whether you’re verifying your CUPS setup, trying to locate configuration files, or simply in need of version information, cups-config is a powerful utility at your disposal.

Use case 1: Show where CUPS is currently installed

Code:

cups-config --serverbin

Motivation:

Knowing the installation directory of CUPS is vital for system administrators and users who need to perform manual maintenance, upgrades, or troubleshoot issues. The --serverbin option lets you quickly identify where the CUPS server binary files are located, which can be crucial when checking for file integrity or performing manual updates.

Explanation:

• cups-config: This is the command used to inquire about CUPS installation details.
• --serverbin: This flag is used to specify that you want to know the location where the server binary files of CUPS are installed.

Example Output:

/usr/lib/cups

This output indicates that the CUPS binaries are located in the /usr/lib/cups directory.

Use case 2: Show the location of CUPS’ configuration directory

Code:

cups-config --serverroot

Motivation:

Having access to the configuration directory of CUPS is crucial, especially when you need to make changes to server settings, adjust permissions, or audit security. By knowing exactly where these configurations reside, you can better manage and protect your server environment.

Explanation:

• cups-config: The main command, used to obtain various pieces of information related to the CUPS installation.
• --serverroot: This argument indicates that you would like to know the root directory where the CUPS configuration files are stored.

Example Output:

/etc/cups

This result shows that the configuration files are located in /etc/cups, a common location for configuration files on UNIX-based systems.

Use case 3: Show the location of CUPS’ data directory

Code:

cups-config --datadir

Motivation:

Understanding where CUPS stores its data files is crucial for data management and backup procedures. It allows admins to create targeted backup scripts and ensure that all critical data is backed up, minimizing loss in case of system failures.

Explanation:

• cups-config: The command used to reveal various installation and configuration details about CUPS.
• --datadir: This flag is utilized to show the location of data files used by CUPS.

Example Output:

/usr/share/cups

This indicates that the data directory for CUPS is located at /usr/share/cups. This directory typically contains support files like models and postscript files.

Use case 4: Display help

Code:

cups-config --help

Motivation:

Using the --help option can provide users with a clear overview of all available options and usage details of the cups-config command. It is an essential step for users who are new to CUPS or need to refresh their knowledge on available command options.

Explanation:

• cups-config: Base command to extract CUPS information.
• --help: This argument is used to display helpful information about the usage of the command, showing all the possible flags and what they do.

Example Output:

Usage: cups-config [OPTIONS]
Options:
 --prefix            Show location of software installation
 --exec-prefix       Show location of platform-specific files
 --serverbin         Show location of server programs
 --serverroot        Show location of server configuration files
 --datadir           Show location of server data files
 --version           Show CUPS version number
 --help              Show this help message

This output provides detailed guidance on all the options available with cups-config.

Use case 5: Display CUPS version

Code:

cups-config --version

Motivation:

Knowing which version of CUPS is installed is vital, as it allows system administrators to ensure they have the latest security updates and features. It also aids in troubleshooting, as certain features or bugs may be specific to particular versions.

Explanation:

• cups-config: The command used for gathering information about the CUPS installation.
• --version: This option specifically requests the version number of the installed CUPS software.

Example Output:

2.3.3

This shows the version of the installed CUPS, essential for maintaining up-to-date systems and verifying compatibility with other software.

Conclusion:

The cups-config command provides essential insights into your CUPS print server setup, empowering users and system administrators with information about installation paths, configuration, data directories, help topics, and versioning. By applying these use cases, you can ensure your CUPS setup is correctly deployed, troubleshoot more effectively, and maintain optimal system operations.