Frequently Asked Question

What does systemd-networkd do and when should I use it?

systemd-networkd is a network configuration daemon: it reads small INI-style .network, .netdev, and .link files in /etc/systemd/network/ and brings up interfaces accordingly. It handles static addressing, DHCP (client and server), VLANs, bridges, bonds, tunnels, and most of what a Linux router or server needs, all declaratively. On systems where it is the active network manager, typically servers, containers, and embedded images, it is paired with systemd-resolved for DNS.

The main alternative is NetworkManager, which is the default on most desktops and laptops because it understands roaming Wi-Fi, VPNs, captive portals, and per-user profiles better. A reasonable rule is: use NetworkManager on a workstation, systemd-networkd on a server or appliance where the configuration is static and should live in version control. The two should not run on the same machine at the same time.