Validation

pathmaster includes comprehensive validation functionality to ensure PATH integrity and prevent common issues.

Path Validation

Directory Validation

Existence checking
Permission verification
Path normalization
Symbolic link resolution

Syntax Validation

Path format checking
Character validation
Length constraints
Shell compatibility

Access Validation

Read permissions
Execute permissions
Owner verification
Group permissions

Validation Commands

Check Command

# Validate current PATH
pathmaster check

# Output shows:
# ✓ Valid directories
# ✗ Invalid directories
# ! Permission issues

Flush Command

# Remove invalid entries
pathmaster flush

# Actions:
# 1. Creates backup
# 2. Validates entries
# 3. Removes invalid paths
# 4. Updates configuration

Validation Types

Basic Validation

Directory existence
Basic permissions
Path formatting
Duplicate detection

Enhanced Validation

Recursive permission checking
Symbolic link validation
Ownership verification
File system access

Shell-Specific Validation

Configuration syntax
Export statements
Path arrays
Framework compatibility

Error Handling

Common Issues

Missing directories
Permission denied
Invalid characters
Broken links

Error Messages

Clear descriptions
Resolution suggestions
Relevant commands
Documentation references

Best Practices

Regular Validation

Schedule periodic checks
Review invalid entries
Document removals
Maintain backups

Validation Process

Check current PATH
Review invalid entries
Backup if needed
Remove invalid entries
Verify changes

Troubleshooting

Check error messages
Verify permissions
Review shell config
Test PATH updates