scutil is a powerful command-line tool for managing system configuration in macOS. It provides access to the dynamic store containing network configuration and system state information.
Key Features
DNS configuration management
Network service control
Proxy settings management
VPN configuration
System state queries
Computer/hostname management
Basic Usage
Interactive Mode
Computer Name Management
Local Host Names
Network Configuration
Check Network Status
Network Services
DNS Configuration
View DNS Settings
DNS Cache Management
Proxy Settings
View Proxy Configuration
Check Specific Proxy Settings
VPN Management
VPN Service Control
VPN Configuration Details
System State
System Preferences
Dynamic Store Access
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
Network Interface Problems
VPN Connection Issues
Hostname Resolution
Debug Commands
Advanced Usage
Dynamic Store Manipulation
Network Service Management
Quick Reference
Essential Commands
Common Flags
--get: Retrieve system settings
--set: Modify system settings
--nc: Network connection operations
--dns: DNS configuration
--nwi: Network information
--proxy: Proxy settings
Interactive Mode Commands
Best Practices
System Changes
Always use sudo for system modifications
Backup configurations before changes
Verify changes after implementation
Network Management
Regular DNS configuration checks
Monitor VPN connection status
Document network service configurations
Troubleshooting Steps
Check network interface status
Verify DNS configuration
Monitor system logs
Test connectivity after changes
Remember:
Most system-modifying commands require sudo privileges
Always backup configurations before making changes
Test changes in a controlled environment first
Document all configuration changes
This guide covers the most common and useful scutil commands. For detailed information, consult the man pages (man scutil).