How to use the command 'kreadconfig5' (with examples)

The kreadconfig5 command is a utility used in KDE Plasma to read KConfig entries. It helps users interact with configuration files within the KDE ecosystem, allowing for efficient retrieval and analysis of specific configuration settings. This can be particularly useful for system administrators and advanced users who need to make fine-tuned adjustments or monitor various configuration parameters.

Use case 1: Read a key from the global configuration

Code:

kreadconfig5 --group group_name --key key_name

Motivation:

In the KDE Plasma desktop environment, configurations are organized into named groups and keys, providing a structured approach to managing settings. A user might need to access a specific global setting to confirm its current value, troubleshoot issues, or document the system configuration. By using the kreadconfig5 command, one can conveniently access key data without manually navigating through configuration files.

Explanation:

• --group group_name: This argument specifies the group within the configuration from which the key value should be read. Groups are used to categorize settings logically.
• --key key_name: This argument specifies the actual key (or setting) whose value you wish to retrieve. Keys represent specific configurable items within a group.

Example Output:

value_of_key_name

Use case 2: Read a key from a specific configuration file

Code:

kreadconfig5 --file path/to/file --group group_name --key key_name

Motivation:

Sometimes a setting is not stored in the global configuration but rather in a specific, localized file. This scenario might occur when dealing with application-specific configurations or user-customized settings. By specifying a file path, users can query these settings directly, enabling precise control and customization.

Explanation:

• --file path/to/file: This argument specifies the path to the configuration file you want to read from. It overrides the default behavior of reading global settings.
• --group group_name: As with the first use case, this selects the group of settings within the specified configuration file.
• --key key_name: Identifies the specific key whose value needs to be retrieved from the specified group and file.

Example Output:

value_of_key_name

Use case 3: Check if systemd is used to start the Plasma session

Code:

kreadconfig5 --file startkderc --group General --key systemdBoot

Motivation:

Plasma sessions can be managed by different init systems, and systemd is a popular choice on many Linux distributions due to its efficiency and comprehensive service management. Confirming whether Plasma is configured to start with systemd can be crucial for debugging, configuring startup services, or optimizing boot times. This command provides a straightforward method to check if the system is configured to use systemd for this purpose.

Explanation:

• --file startkderc: This specifies that the startkderc configuration file should be used. It contains settings related to the startup of the KDE environment.
• --group General: Refers to the general group of settings within the startkderc file, where overarching session and startup configurations are typically stored.
• --key systemdBoot: The specific key being queried, determining whether systemd is enabled to manage the Plasma session startup.

Example Output:

true

or

false

Conclusion:

Understanding and utilizing kreadconfig5 offers a powerful means for users and administrators to efficiently access KDE configuration settings. Whether you’re fetching global settings, delving into specific configuration files, or verifying session management utilities like systemd, this command bridges the gap between configuration complexity and user accessibility.