tlmgr-shell

Start an interactive shell of tlmgr

$ tlmgr shell

$ [subcommand] [arguments]

$ quit

$ get

$ get [variable]

$ set [variable] [value]

$ restart

$ protocol

tlmgr shell

None
    The tlmgr-shell command itself does not accept direct command-line parameters or options upon invocation. All operations and their respective parameters are executed interactively once the shell is launched.

The tlmgr-shell command provides an interactive command-line interface for managing a TeX Live installation. It is a powerful subcommand within the tlmgr (TeX Live Manager) utility that allows users to perform a wide range of tasks related to TeX Live packages and configurations without repeatedly invoking the main tlmgr command.
Within this interactive mode, users can seamlessly install new packages, update existing ones, remove unnecessary packages, search for specific packages, manage TeX Live repositories, and configure various TeX Live options. This interactive environment is particularly beneficial for executing multiple operations in sequence, exploring available options, and leveraging features like tab-completion (where supported by the user's shell environment). It serves as a central, persistent hub for maintaining a healthy and up-to-date TeX Live distribution.

Root Privileges: Many operations, especially installing, updating, or removing system-wide packages, require administrative (root) privileges.
Internet Connection: Updating or installing new packages typically requires an active internet connection to download data from TeX Live repositories.
Exit Command: Users must remember to type quit or exit to properly terminate the interactive shell session.
Complexity: While providing convenience, mastering all tlmgr commands and their options within the shell can still be complex for new users.

Once inside the tlmgr-shell prompt, users can execute various tlmgr subcommands without repeatedly typing tlmgr. Some frequently used commands within the interactive shell include:
install package-name: Installs a new TeX Live package.
update [--all]: Updates all installed packages or specific ones.
remove package-name: Removes an installed package.
search pattern: Searches for packages matching a given pattern.
option key [value]: Sets or displays configuration options for TeX Live.
repository add|remove|list: Manages TeX Live package repositories.
help [command]: Displays help for specific commands or general help.
quit / exit: Exits the interactive shell session.

The tlmgr (TeX Live Manager) utility was developed as a unified, cross-platform replacement for older TeX Live management tools like teXconfig. Its introduction marked a significant step towards modernizing the process of installing, updating, and managing TeX Live distributions. The shell subcommand has been an integral part of tlmgr since its early versions, offering an interactive environment that streamlines multiple management tasks and provides a more persistent context for users, evolving alongside the broader capabilities of tlmgr itself.

tlmgr(1), texdoc(1), kpsewhich(1), latex(1), xelatex(1), lualatex(1)