grub-syslinux2cfg

grub-syslinux2cfg [options]

    The path to the Syslinux configuration file to convert.

--output=
    Specify the output file for the GRUB configuration. If not provided, output is to stdout.

--drivemap=from:to
    Translate drives from the original from to to drive. Can be added multiple times.

--help
    Display help message and exit.

grub-syslinux2cfg is a utility that helps convert configuration files from Syslinux, a popular bootloader for Linux, to GRUB (GRand Unified Bootloader) configuration format. This is particularly useful when migrating from Syslinux to GRUB, as it automates the process of translating the boot entries. The command analyzes a Syslinux configuration file, typically `syslinux.cfg` or `ldlinux.sys`, and generates a corresponding GRUB configuration file, usually `grub.cfg` or a fragment file that can be included in `grub.cfg`. It handles various Syslinux directives such as `LABEL`, `MENU LABEL`, `KERNEL`, `APPEND`, `INITRD`, etc., mapping them to the equivalent GRUB commands like `menuentry`, `linux`, `initrd`, and `boot`.

While the conversion is automated, the generated GRUB configuration might require manual adjustments, especially for complex setups or custom configurations. The utility aims to provide a good starting point, but it's crucial to review and test the resulting GRUB configuration to ensure proper booting of the system.

The converted configuration may need manual adjustments especially when dealing with less used features of syslinux, and should be considered a good starting point to reduce manual work

The conversion may not be perfect for complex configurations. Always test the generated GRUB configuration before relying on it.

To convert a Syslinux configuration file named `syslinux.cfg` to a GRUB configuration file named `grub.cfg`, use the following command:

`grub-syslinux2cfg --output=grub.cfg syslinux.cfg`

To view the converted GRUB config in the terminal use:

`grub-syslinux2cfg syslinux.cfg`

The command grub-syslinux2cfg was developed as part of the GRUB project to ease the transition from Syslinux to GRUB. As GRUB became more popular and replaced Syslinux in many systems, tools to simplify the migration process, such as this one, became essential. The command helps bridge the gap by automating the conversion of bootloader configurations. It's evolved alongside GRUB, adapting to changes in both Syslinux and GRUB configuration formats.

grub-mkconfig(8), grub-install(8)