What is a Patch?

A patch is a file that finds the differences between two files, allowing you to add the difference in code to your files.

What could this be used for?

This could be used for adding features to your server. It is a lot easier than a step-by-step instructional on adding it. It also saves a lot of time.

What will I need?

All you need is a diff/patch executable(along with a few .dlls). They are a pretty common thing and are included in gnuwin. If you don't have them, or don't know if you have them, then you can just click here to download them. I'd suggest saving them to a easy, accessible place because they will be used a lot.

Let's get started.

Before you can begin creating/applying a patch, you have to get to the directory. Open your command-line, and go to the directory of where the diff/patch executables are located. You can do this by typing 'cd Location'. To make sure it works, you can type 'diff --help' or 'patch --help' and a bunch of text should pop up with help on how to use.
Example: Here

Creating a Patch

One file

Make sure you have the original(before you added code) and the updated file. In your command-line, type: ''diff originalFile updatedFile > filename.patch''
Example: Here

Multiple files

Make sure you have the original directory(before you added code) and the updated directory. In your command-line type: ''diff -rupN originalDirectory updatedDirectory > filename.patch''
Example: Here

Applying a Patch

One file

Make sure you have the patch file and the original file that was used to create it. In your command-line type: ''patch originalFile -i filename.patch -o fileToUpdate''
Example: Here

Multiple files

''Figuring this out still :P''

Distributing Patches

When you distribute a patch, I wouldn't just give them the patch file. Since, when you are using the patch command, you have to include the original(the file that does NOT include the updates) file, I would also include the original file then so it provides a less chance for your code to get messed up.

Below is a list of current patches for EOSERV. Feel free to add your own patch on there if it is not included already.

List of Patches

TestPatch - Just adds a small player command that outputs text if you type $xxx