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This has happened twice now: After updating my Ventura OS, I find that files in /etc are over-written with the original, default contents.

Specifically, I have modified the file /etc/auto_master to use Apple's AutoFS feature. After each OS update, this file is over-written with the original/default file. It's a small file, and my modifications are not extensive, but it's fairly inconvenient and irritating. In fact, it's so arrogant that I wonder if I've not missed something...

Have I missed Apple's explanation or work-around to this behavior?

NOTE:

This question specifically inquires about reversions to /etc files following an UPDATE. The answer given to the "duplicate question" is apparently based on a Q&A based on an UPGRADE. AFAIK, the logic for file reversions should be different for UPDATES and UPGRADES.

Seamus
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    It is every UPDATE because the SSV gets replaced on every update. The UPGRADE behaviour only applies pre (I think) Big Sur. – Gilby Sep 21 '23 at 02:49
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    re Upgrade and Update have you got any source for the process being different? – mmmmmm Sep 21 '23 at 10:37
  • Your assumption about differences between updates and upgrades in regard of /etc is most likely not correct. I have files there (e.g. /etc/ssh/sshd_config.d/000-local.conf or /etc/paths.d/*) which never get overwritten, and others (like auto_master) which get overwritten with each update/upgrade. – nohillside Sep 21 '23 at 14:07
  • @mmmmmm: All I have is the reference to the Apple Developer's Exchange Q&A referenced in the "duplicate question". – Seamus Sep 21 '23 at 20:17
  • @nohillside: If that's how you feel, I have to say I'm surprised that you wouldn't vote to re-open this question. If my assumption is faulty, and yours is correct, then it remains true that the "duplicate question" is not actually a duplicate. All I'm trying to learn is whether or not there is some logic (or documentation) or thought behind Apple's decision to revert the files. – Seamus Sep 21 '23 at 20:23
  • @Gilby: I assume you have a reference upon which the statement in your comment is based?? If you could share it with us, it may be the answer that I was looking for. – Seamus Sep 21 '23 at 20:29
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    The answer to the original question ("You cannot prevent it, you will have to check if it has changed and restore your custom file when you detect the change.") fits the upgrade and the update case, even if there would be a difference in the process. The implied "why" question is off-topic, as are most questions about why Apple does or doesn't do things the way they do/don't. – nohillside Sep 21 '23 at 21:05
  • PS: Specifically for auto_master I have a short shell script which reinstalls my custom version if necessary. – nohillside Sep 21 '23 at 21:05
  • The reference is 8 years old and several OS versions old - there have been major changes - also tyhe last major version change Ventura used the same mechanisim as a minor version change in Mavericks. So they are the same now as far as I can see. – mmmmmm Sep 21 '23 at 21:20
  • @nohillside: You're ignoring the real question stated near the end: "Have I missed Apple's explanation or work-around to this behavior?". But I expect you're ignoring it for other reasons. Let's forget the review request - I can see now it's a waste of time. – Seamus Sep 22 '23 at 02:33

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