strdu

strdu is a Unix command-line utility designed to duplicate or copy files and directories recursively while preserving file attributes, permissions, and ownership. It is particularly useful in scenarios where users need to replicate directory structures and their contents without altering the original files. The tool is often employed as an alternative to traditional copy commands like `cp` when additional features, such as symbolic link handling or selective copying, are required.

The command operates by traversing directories recursively and copying each file or subdirectory encountered. By default, strdu maintains the original file permissions, timestamps, and ownership, though these attributes can be modified with appropriate options. It also handles symbolic links by default, copying the links themselves rather than resolving them to their targets, which can be disabled if necessary.

One of the key advantages of strdu is its ability to perform selective copying based on file attributes or patterns. Users can specify criteria such as file size, modification time, or extension to include or exclude files during the copy process. This makes it a flexible tool for managing large directory structures where only certain files need to be replicated.

Strdu is commonly used in scripting and automation tasks, particularly in environments where precise control over file replication is required. It is available on most Unix-like systems, including Linux distributions, and can be installed via package managers such as `apt`, `yum`, or `dnf`, depending on the distribution. While not as widely recognized as `cp` or `rsync`, its specialized features make it a valuable addition for users with specific copying needs.