delete veto files

delete veto files is a parameter used in conjunction with Samba’s veto_files VFS module. It determines whether files matching the veto file patterns are actually removed from the filesystem when a client attempts to delete them. This setting helps manage unwanted or temporary files by ensuring they do not persist on the server.

Purpose

• File Cleanup: When enabled, if a client attempts to delete a file that matches one of the veto patterns, Samba will remove the file from the share rather than simply denying access.

• Automated Maintenance: Helps in automatically cleaning up files that are not meant to be stored long-term (such as temporary or system files like Thumbs.db or desktop.ini).

How It Works

• Veto Files Module: Samba’s veto_files module allows administrators to specify file patterns (using the veto files parameter) that should be hidden from users. These files are not normally visible in the share.

• Deletion Behavior: With delete veto files = yes, if a user attempts to delete a file that is vetoed, Samba will perform the deletion on the underlying filesystem instead of returning an error or ignoring the command.

Configuration Example

Below is an example of how to configure the veto_files module along with the deletion option in your smb.conf:

[public]
   path = /srv/samba/public
   read only = no
   vfs objects = veto_files
   veto files = /Thumbs.db/desktop.ini/
   delete veto files = yes

• vfs objects = veto_files: Loads the veto_files module.

• veto files = /Thumbs.db/desktop.ini/: Specifies that files matching Thumbs.db and desktop.ini are vetoed (hidden).

• delete veto files = yes: Ensures that when a vetoed file is deleted by a client, it is actually removed from the filesystem.

Use Cases

• Automatic Removal of Unwanted Files: In environments where temporary or system files (e.g., Thumbs.db, desktop.ini) are created, this setting ensures these files do not accumulate and clutter the share.

• Simplified File Management: Prevents orphaned or unnecessary files from remaining on the server, reducing administrative overhead.

Considerations

• Irreversible Deletion: Enabling this option means that once a vetoed file is deleted, it is permanently removed. Ensure that your veto file patterns are correctly defined to avoid accidental deletion of important files.

• Appropriate Use of Veto Patterns: Carefully tailor your veto files patterns to target only those files that should not persist in the share.

Conclusion

The delete veto files parameter, when used with Samba’s veto_files module, provides an effective way to automatically clean up unwanted files from shares. This not only helps maintain a tidy file system but also reduces the manual effort required to manage temporary or system-generated files.