wikiVim file management of remote hosts with netrw
vi (or vim) is the default editor in many Unix and Linux environments. Vim includes Buildin netrw by default. This allows you to use the application as a file manager. However, this functionality is not limited exclusively to local sources, but can also be used for remote hosts.
This article describes exemplary how to open and edit data records on remote hosts using Vim and netrw.
File access
In the following, the setup and the configuration of the file manager are explained.
Opening the files
In Vim, two sources can be opened at the same time. This can be made with one command in Vim:
vim -c ":e scp://root@192.168.6.61//" -c ":vsp" -c ":e scp://root@192.168.6.62//"
Please note that the SSH keys are needed for a connection establishment. Otherwise, a password will be requested each time you change folders.
Command declaration
| Snippet | explanation |
|---|---|
| vim | sets a vim buildin |
| -c | a command follows (command) |
| ":e scp://root@192.168.6.61//" | specifies the IP address of the host to which a connection is to be established. |
| :e | edit |
| scp: | securecopy / secure file transfer |
| vsp | ensures that both hosts are displayed in a vertical split screen (VSP) |
File editing
If the connection is open, data on both hosts can be edited and compared.
The following describes how to open the files and prepare a comparative editing.
Selection of files
Once the relevant file has been found, it can be selected using the key combination mf.
Then temporarily open them for comparison using the keyboard shortcut md:
Repeat the same process in the other window with the second host. Mark the file with mf as well and open it with md.
With [Strg] + [W] or [P], you can switch between windows or hosts.
Saving of file changes
Changes are written back directly to the respective hosts using
:wa
More information
- vi (de.wikipedia.org)
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Author: Wilfried Seifert Wilfried Seifert, working in the Systems Engineering department at Thomas-Krenn, is responsible for system/prototype development in his work area. LPIC 3 certified, deals with construction / programming of embedded / GPIO systems; in his spare time he likes to repair old home computers, attends Linux conferences or is on the road with his bike (MTB) for sporting compensation.
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Translator: Alina Ranzinger Alina has been working at Thomas-Krenn.AG since 2024. After her training as multilingual business assistant, she got her job as assistant of the Product Management and is responsible for the translation of texts and for the organisation of the department.
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