Silk Tree

Silk Tree is an essential tool that simplifies the process of propagating files from a master to a list of hosts via the SSH protocol, particularly the /etc/passwd and /etc/group files. Users can establish a secure, non-root user connection at both the sending and receiving ends, which prevents unauthorized access. The receiver's side executes a read-only sudo program that finalizes any modifications made to /etc, ensuring that the system remains entirely stable.

The program features several checks to ensure that authorization updates are reliable, simplifying the admin's job. Additionally, ACLs are used to enforce a simple security policy, providing more control over the data being transferred. Any differences between old and new versions of the files can be easily reviewed, making troubleshooting quick and efficient.

Silk Tree also includes two small scripts designed to streamline the process of exporting LDAP users and groups. This feature saves time and reduces the margin of error, making Silk Tree ideal for organizations with a significant number of LDAP users. Overall, Silk Tree is an excellent tool for anyone who needs to manage multiple hosts and ensure that their data is kept in sync across their systems with ease.