FreeBSD/NetBSD compatibility?

[nilsgecko]

Hello everyone, I'm new here but wanted to ask: Say I build a kernel in NetBSD or FreeBSD for example, and I omit compatibility for NetBSD/FreeBSD 1.X 2.X 3.X etc.,

Do any of the built-in utilities/commands/libraries depend on this compatibility or would I be safe in omitting this compatibility if I don't intend to run older versions of these operating systems with the current ones?

[Mr-Biscuit]

The compat is not needed. You'll be safe.

[ocicat]

Welcome!

This new discussion topic was separated from the original thread.

We find that most members extensively search these forums for information. As such, we attempt to keep threads limited to one topic -- as defined by the person originating the thread. Keeping discussion focused helps later readers piece together pertinent information.

[nilsgecko]

Hello and thanks for the answer. I have heard some admins still run FreeBSD 4.X etc. even though an older release such as this might no longer be supported. I suppose the compatibility is for these people then. Regards

[nilsgecko]

Dear forum,

I found the appropriate manual page for NetBSD detailing the various compat options

man 4 options

Compatibility Options

options COMPAT_09
Enable binary compatibility with NetBSD 0.9. This enables support for
16-bit user, group...getdomainname(3),
setdomainname(3), and uname(3) syscalls. This option also allows using
numeric file system identifiers rather than strings. Post NetBSD 0.9
versions use string identifiers.
...
etc...
options COMPAT_43
Enables compatibility with 4.3BSD. This adds an old syscall for
lseek(2)...support for some older pre
4.4BSD socket calls.
etc...

http://netbsd.gw.com/cgi-bin/man-cgi...s+4+NetBSD-5.1

[nilsgecko]

As far as FreeBSD, I have not been able to locate a manual page with similar documentation on the compat options other than just reading the kernel config file itself. If anyone knows please let me know. Regards