In message <200206251902.g5PJ2Pm11783@toad.rmkhome.com>, Rick Kelly writes:

>
>When I set up a system I use the policy that stuff in /etc/rc.d is
>the basic system stuff and shouldn't be messed with.
>

This is crucial.  Updating /etc is the most difficult -- and 
error-prone -- part of doing a system upgrade.  Anything that involves 
more intermingling of local and distribution directories is a pain.  
(etcupdate is a step in the right direction.  I'm far from convinced 
it's the full answer.)

/etc.local/rc.d might be a better solution.  Generalize as needed for 
other files that need to be customized...

		--Steve Bellovin, http://www.research.att.com/~smb (me)
		http://www.wilyhacker.com ("Firewalls" book)