Linux Commands / IT Support Guides
List a tar archive before extracting it
A support bundle may contain unexpected paths or overwrite existing files if extracted into the wrong directory. Inspect the archive members 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.
tar -tf support-bundle.tarHow to read the result
The listing prints archive member names without extracting their content. Review the directory structure and any surprising absolute or parent-relative path names.
What to do next
Replace the archive name and extract only into a separate approved workspace using a tool version with appropriate path protections. Inspect the resulting files before moving anything into a live application directory.
Before you make a change
Listing does not prove an archive is safe. Untrusted archives may contain symlinks, large expansions or sensitive files and need controlled handling.