scutil MacOS Command Guide

The MacOS scutil command is a powerful tool for managing system configuration settings. It allows users to interact with the system configuration database, modify network settings, and perform various tasks related to networking and system configuration. With scutil, users can query, set, and delete configuration parameters, as well as perform tasks such as changing the computer name, hostname, and network interface settings. Additionally, the scutil command can be used to troubleshoot networking issues, manage network proxies, and configure VPN settings. Overall, the scutil command is a versatile tool for customizing and managing MacOS system settings.

scutil Syntax:

scutil [command] [parameters]

Options:

Option	Description
-r	Read configuration values.
-w	Write configuration values.
-nc	Do not cache this value.
-n	Read notification (no wait).
-nN	Read notification (wait).
-nP	Read notification (poll).
-rN	Release notification.
-a	Authenticate.
-h	Help.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
key	The key name to read or write.
value	The value to write.
service	The service to operate on.
reason	The reason for changing state.
keypath	Key path for notification registration.
name	The name of the notification to operate on.
callback	The callback program to execute.
arguments	The arguments to pass to the callback program.
config-file	The configuration file that contains the configuration.

Caution

Exercise caution when using the scutil command as incorrect usage can potentially modify system settings and configurations leading to unexpected behavior.

scutil Command Samples:

Show System Hostname

scutil --get HostName

Displays the current system hostname.

Show DNS Resolver Configuration

scutil --dns

Shows the DNS resolver configuration details.

Set Hostname

sudo scutil --set HostName new_hostname

Sets the system hostname to the specified value.

Show Current Network Configuration

scutil --get LocalHostName
scutil --get ComputerName

Displays the current local hostname and computer name.

Show System Global Hostname

scutil --get LocalHostName

Shows the global system hostname.

Show all Power Source Information

scutil --power

Displays information about all available power sources.

Show VPN Status

scutil --nc list

Shows the status of network interfaces including VPN connections.

Tip

When using the scutil command in MacOS, make sure to refer to the official documentation or man pages for detailed information on available options and usage. Additionally, exercise caution when making changes to network configurations using scutil to avoid any unexpected network disruptions.

scutil FAQ:

How do I set the computer’s hostname using scutil in MacOS?

To set the computer’s hostname with scutil in MacOS, use the following command:

sudo scutil --set HostName your-new-hostname

How do I display the current network configuration using scutil in MacOS?

To display the current network configuration with scutil in MacOS, execute the following command:

scutil --get LocalHostName

How do I list all network services with scutil in MacOS?

To list all network services using scutil in MacOS, run the following command:

scutil --nc list

How can I view the current IPv4 configuration using scutil in MacOS?

To view the current IPv4 configuration with scutil in MacOS, use the following command:

scutil --get State:/Network/Global/IPv4

How do I delete a specific network service with scutil in MacOS?

To delete a specific network service using scutil in MacOS, use the following command:

sudo scutil --nc delete "interface_name"

How can I view the current DNS configuration with scutil in MacOS?

To view the current DNS configuration using scutil in MacOS, run the following command:

scutil --dns

Applications of the scutil command

• Changing network settings
• Configuring DNS settings
• Managing network services
• Displaying network information
• Setting computer hostname
• Configuring dynamic store
• Managing interface settings
• Checking reachability of network hosts