TL;DR
The OpenBSD team has integrated openrsync, a new rsync implementation licensed under BSD, into the base system. It aims to be compatible with modern rsync protocols and is open for contributions.
The OpenBSD project has merged openrsync, an open-source implementation of the rsync protocol, into its base system, making it available for use and further development. This development matters because it offers an alternative to the official rsync utility under a BSD license, with potential benefits for open-source projects and system administrators seeking a lightweight, compatible tool.
Openrsync is a new implementation of the rsync protocol created by the OpenBSD team. It is licensed under the BSD (ISC) license, allowing free use and modification. The project originated as part of the rpki-client project, an RPKI validator for OpenBSD, and has now been merged into the OpenBSD base system, making it officially supported on OpenBSD and portable to other UNIX-like systems.
Openrsync is compatible with rsync version 3.1.3 and supports protocol version 27, although it only accepts a subset of rsync’s command-line arguments. It can operate both as a client and server, and users are encouraged to contribute patches by contacting the OpenBSD development team at tech@openbsd.org. Installation involves downloading, configuring, and compiling the source code, which can coexist with the standard rsync utility without conflicts.
The implementation follows the core rsync algorithm, which involves file list sharing, sorting, and a block exchange process that efficiently updates files by transmitting only changed data. The codebase includes components for handling files, directories, symbolic links, and the block exchange process, with hashing algorithms like Adler-32 and MD4 used for data verification.
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it provides an open-source, BSD-licensed alternative to the proprietary rsync utility, potentially increasing transparency and flexibility for system administrators and developers. It also demonstrates OpenBSD’s ongoing efforts to build secure, portable, and open tools for UNIX systems, which could influence other projects to adopt similar implementations or licensing models.
Furthermore, openrsync’s compatibility with modern rsync protocols means it can replace or complement existing backup and synchronization workflows, especially in environments prioritizing open licensing and customization. The project’s open contribution model may accelerate development and adaptation to future protocol changes or features.
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Background
Rsync, developed by Andrew Tridgell and Paul Mackerras, is a widely used utility for file synchronization and backup, known for its efficiency in transmitting only changed parts of files. The official rsync is proprietary, although its protocol is well-documented. OpenBSD’s initiative to create openrsync stems from a desire for a fully open implementation compatible with current protocols, especially within the security-focused OpenBSD ecosystem. The project is a response to the need for open, auditable tools that can be integrated into open-source systems without licensing restrictions.
Prior to this, users depended on the official rsync utility, which is under a different license, limiting certain uses and modifications. Openrsync aims to fill this gap by providing a BSD-licensed implementation that maintains compatibility with existing rsync workflows.
“Openrsync is now part of the OpenBSD base system, providing a fully open, compatible rsync implementation that can be contributed to and modified freely.”
— OpenBSD project spokesperson
“Openrsync was designed to be portable, compatible, and open, supporting modern rsync protocols while allowing community contributions.”
— OpenBSD developer
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear how widely openrsync will be adopted outside of OpenBSD, or how it will evolve in comparison to the official rsync. Details about ongoing development, feature parity, and performance benchmarks are still emerging. Additionally, support for the full range of rsync command-line options remains limited, which may affect some use cases.
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What’s Next
Next steps include ongoing development and community contributions to improve openrsync, expanding its feature set, and testing compatibility across different UNIX systems. The OpenBSD team may also release updates and documentation to facilitate broader adoption and integration into workflows.
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Key Questions
Is openrsync fully compatible with the official rsync?
Openrsync supports the rsync protocol up to version 27 and is compatible with rsync 3.1.3, but it only accepts a subset of command-line arguments. Full compatibility with all features is still in development.
Can openrsync replace the standard rsync on my system?
Yes, openrsync can be installed alongside the standard rsync without conflicts, and it can be used as a drop-in replacement for many workflows, especially in environments valuing open licensing.
How can I contribute to openrsync?
Interested contributors can send patches and improvements to the OpenBSD team via email at tech@openbsd.org, as indicated in the project documentation.
Source: Hacker News
