How to Use the Command 'tlmgr restore' (with Examples)
The tlmgr restore command is part of the TeX Live Manager (tlmgr) suite, which plays a crucial role in managing TeX installations, particularly when it comes to updating, installing, and restoring packages within the TeX Live distribution. The restore function of tlmgr is specifically tailored to help users revert packages to their previous versions if needed, using backups retained by tlmgr backup. This can be particularly useful for ensuring stability in document compilations where specific package versions are required.
Use Case 1: List All Available Backup Revisions for All Packages
Code:
tlmgr restore
Motivation:
In scenarios where a user has made multiple updates to various TeX packages and needs to view all available backup versions to determine if a restoration of a specific version is necessary, this command becomes indispensable. It offers a comprehensive look at the backup history, aiding in decision-making about potential rollbacks.
Explanation:
The command tlmgr restore without any additional arguments performs a scan through the default backup directory, listing all the package revisions that have been backed up. This operation does not make any changes but simply provides a summary of the available data for restoration purposes.
Example Output:
Available revisions for etex: 64064, 64065, 64321
Available revisions for geometry: 61095, 61832
Available revisions for hyperref: 59999, 60123, 61500
...
Use Case 2: List All Available Backup Revisions for a Specific Package
Code:
tlmgr restore package_name
Motivation:
There might be instances where only a specific package is of interest, due to issues or regressions appearing after the latest update. In such cases, listing all backup revisions for just that package allows users to pinpoint a known stable version faster, without the noise of other packages’ backups.
Explanation:
By specifying a package_name as an argument to the command tlmgr restore, the tool will focus its search exclusively on the backups related to that package. This targeted listing ensures efficient retrieval of backup data tailored to user needs.
Example Output:
Available revisions for geometry: 61095, 61832
Use Case 3: Restore a Specific Revision of a Specific Package
Code:
tlmgr restore package_name revision_number
Motivation:
When a user identifies a specific revision of a package that worked well for their documents but was broken by recent updates, they may choose to revert back to that known good state. This command precisely accomplishes such a specific restoration task, ensuring continuity in their work.
Explanation:
In this case, package_name is the TeX package that the user intends to revert, and revision_number specifies the version they wish to restore. The command directly replaces the current package with the selected revision, using the backups from the default directory.
Example Output:
Restoring package geometry to revision 61095...
Restore complete.
Use Case 4: Restore the Latest Revision of All Backed-Up Packages
Code:
tlmgr restore --all
Motivation:
Occasionally, a user might need to revert all packages that have been updated recently to their immediate previous versions to troubleshoot issues that occur across multiple documents. By using this command, users can quickly return to the last known stable state across the board.
Explanation:
The --all option mandates tlmgr to roll back every package update to its most recent backup. This command simplifies the task of bulk restoration and provides an efficient means to ensure the entire TeX system remains consistent.
Example Output:
Restoring latest revisions for all packages...
geometry: Back to revision 61832
etex: Back to revision 64321
hyperref: Back to revision 61500
...
Restoration of all packages complete.
Use Case 5: Restore a Package from a Custom Backup Directory
Code:
tlmgr restore package_name revision_number --backupdir path/to/backup_directory
Motivation:
In certain environments, users might store backups in custom directories distinct from the system-default location. This command caters to those needs, facilitating package restoration directly from these custom paths, ensuring that differing workflows and directory structures can be accommodated.
Explanation:
Here, package_name and revision_number are required inputs identifying the package and its specific version, while --backupdir path/to/backup_directory specifies the location of the user’s backup files. This flexibility allows for greater control over where and how backups are managed.
Example Output:
Restoring package geometry from /custom/backups/ to revision 61095...
Restore complete.
Use Case 6: Perform a Dry-Run and Print All Taken Actions Without Making Them
Code:
tlmgr restore --dry-run package_name revision_number
Motivation:
This option is ideal for users who want to audit what changes would take place during a restoration process without actually applying them. It provides a layer of safety, allowing users to rehearse their actions and make informed decisions before executing changes.
Explanation:
The --dry-run flag instructs tlmgr to simulate the restoration process for the specified package and revision without making any actual changes. This feature is crucial for cautious users and can help prevent unintended disruptions.
Example Output:
(DRY-RUN) Would restore package geometry to revision 61095
No changes have been made.
Conclusion
The tlmgr restore command is a versatile and powerful tool within the TeX Live Manager suite, providing meticulous control over package versioning through several use cases. Each of these use cases not only aids in restoring packages effectively but contributes to maintaining a stable and predictable TeX environment suitable for both individual and collaborative document preparation.
