Description: Unit masking is a method to prevent a unit from starting, either manually or automatically. In the context of system management, masking refers to creating a symbolic link that points to /dev/null, which prevents the system from starting the specific unit in question. This approach is useful for disabling services that are unnecessary or may cause conflicts, allowing system administrators to have greater control over system behavior. Unlike simply stopping a unit, which may allow it to start again in the future, masking ensures that the unit remains disabled until the masking is explicitly undone. This method is particularly relevant in environments where stability and security are critical, as it helps prevent the unwanted execution of potentially problematic services. Unit masking can be applied to any type of unit in system management, including services, sockets, devices, and mounts, making it a versatile tool for configuration and control.
