Script Processing During Package Installation

The type of scripts you use depends on when the action of the script is needed during the installation process. As a package is installed, the pkgadd command performs the following steps:

1. Executes the request script.

   This step is the only point at which your package can solicit input from the administrator who is installing the package.

2. Executes the checkinstall script.

   The checkinstall script gathers file system data and can create or alter environment variable definitions to control the subsequent installation. For more information on package environment variables, see Package Environment Variables.

3. Executes the preinstall script.

4. Installs package objects, for each class to be installed.

   Installation of these files occurs class by class, and class action scripts are executed accordingly. The list of classes operated on and the order in which they should be installed is initially defined with the CLASSES parameter in your pkginfo file. However, your request script or checkinstall script can change the value of the CLASSES parameter. For more information on how classes are processed during installation, see How Classes Are Processed During Package Installation.

   1. Creates symbolic links, devices, named pipes, and required directories.

   2. Installs the regular files (file types e, v, f), based on their class

      The class action script is passed only regular files to install. All other package objects are created automatically from information in the pkgmap file.

   3. Creates all hard links.

5. Executes the postinstall script.