Linux Commands / IT Support Guides
Preview a Linux transfer with rsync dry-run
A directory synchronization can copy far more data than expected when the source path or trailing slash is wrong. Preview the exact transfer first.
Environment and inputs: Linux · Bash-compatible shell; package and service names vary by distribution
Try the diagnostic command
Use the stated shell and platform. Replace sample domains, addresses, services and paths with values from the system you are authorized to support.
rsync -av --dry-run /srv/source/ /mnt/backup/source/How to read the result
The dry run displays proposed changes without transferring files. A trailing slash on the source means copy its contents into the destination rather than adding another directory level.
What to do next
Replace both paths and inspect the complete proposed tree. Confirm the destination mount is present, then run the reviewed transfer without --dry-run and validate sample files.
Before you make a change
Do not add --delete unless destination removal is explicitly intended. A successful transfer does not provide an independently tested recovery history.