Are you like me and forget all the awesome things you learn about FreeBSD? My solution is to write this post and collect those commands and tricks in a single place. [TOC] # freebsd-version Linux and FreeBSD have _/etc/os-release_ but only FreeBSD has the useful `freebsd-version`. I use it as `freebsd-version -kru` which shows, in order, the installed kernel version, running kernel version, and installed userland version. # freebsd-update When you are ready to apply updates, you must use `freebsd-update`. I run it in three steps: # freebsd-update fetch # freebsd-update updatesready # freebsd-update install [Apparently](https://stackoverflow.com/a/23798116) by running `yes | freebsd-update` it can be turned into an unattended update process. When upgrading to new major version, e.g. from 12 to 13, use the `-r` flag/switch. More details [Updating and Upgrading FreeBSD](https://docs.freebsd.org/en/books/handbook/cutting-edge/). # sysrc The handy `sysrc` command safely edits rc files. I use it extensively in the [Ansible roles](https://github.com/codeghar/ansible-roles) I write. # pkg audit Want to know if any of your packages are vulnerable? Run `pkg audit -F` as root where the `-F` flag/switch _always_ fetches the latest vulnerabilities data. # pkg version List all installed packages and their versions with `pkg version`. Add the `-v` flag/switch for verbose output.