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rcp Linux Command Guide

The rcp command in Linux allows users to securely transfer files between different systems. It is a reliable and efficient way to copy files over a network without compromising security. With rcp, users can easily move files between remote systems using a simple command-line interface. This guide explains how to use the rcp command effectively and securely to transfer files between Linux systems.

rcp Syntax:

Terminal window
rcp [option] [source_file] [destination_file]

Options:

OptionDescription
-pPreserve file modification times
-rCopy directories recursively
-fForce copy even if destination exists

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
source_fileSpecifies the file to copy from
destination_fileSpecifies the file to copy to

rcp Command Samples:

Copy a File to a Remote Host

Terminal window
rcp file.txt remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Copy the file “file.txt” from the local system to a remote host, specifying the remote username and destination path.

Copy Multiple Files to a Remote Host

Terminal window
rcp file1.txt file2.txt remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Copy multiple files (“file1.txt” and “file2.txt”) from the local system to a remote host, specifying the remote username and destination path.

Copy a Directory to a Remote Host

Terminal window
rcp -r directory/ remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Recursively copy the directory “directory” from the local system to a remote host, specifying the remote username and destination path.

Copy a File from a Remote Host

Terminal window
rcp remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/file.txt .

Copy the file “file.txt” from a remote host to the local system in the current directory.

Copy with Specified Port

Terminal window
rcp -P 1234 file.txt remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Copy the file “file.txt” to a remote host over a specific port (1234), specifying the remote username and destination path.

Interactive Mode for Copying

Terminal window
rcp -p file.txt remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Copy the file “file.txt” to a remote host while preserving its modification time and in interactive mode.

Verbose Mode for Copying

Terminal window
rcp -v file.txt remoteuser@remotehost:/path/to/destination

Copy the file “file.txt” to a remote host and display verbose information during the transfer process.

rcp FAQ:

How do I use rcp in Linux?

To use the rcp command in Linux, execute the following command:

Terminal window
rcp --option <value>

What is the syntax for transferring files with rcp in Linux?

The syntax for transferring files with rcp in Linux is as follows:

Terminal window
rcp <source_file> <destination_file>

How can I copy files between different hosts using rcp in Linux?

To copy files between different hosts using rcp in Linux, use the following command format:

Terminal window
rcp username1@hostname1:/path/to/source username2@hostname2:/path/to/destination

Can I recursively copy directories with rcp in Linux?

Yes, you can recursively copy directories with rcp in Linux by using the -r option. Here’s an example:

Terminal window
rcp -r /path/to/source/directory username@hostname:/path/to/destination/directory

How can I use rcp to preserve file permissions during file transfer in Linux?

To preserve file permissions during file transfer with rcp in Linux, you can use the -p option. Here’s how to do it:

Terminal window
rcp -p /path/to/source/file username@hostname:/path/to/destination

Is there a way to display the progress of file transfer with rcp in Linux?

Yes, you can display the progress of file transfer with rcp in Linux by using the -v (verbose) option. Here’s an example command:

Terminal window
rcp -v /path/to/source/file username@hostname:/path/to/destination

Applications of the rcp command

  • Remote file copying
  • Transferring files between UNIX/Linux systems
  • Using a secure shell (ssh) connection for file transfers