FAQ

Is ldev a generic CLI for any Java project?

No. It is specifically shaped around Liferay maintenance and troubleshooting workflows.

Does ldev only work with the ldev-native Docker layout?

No. It can also run on top of a standard Blade workspace.

Does ldev replace Liferay Workspace?

No. You can use ldev as an operational layer on top of Liferay Workspace when that is already your team standard.

Does ldev replace the Liferay Cloud CLI?

No. For db download, db sync, and db files-download, ldev uses the Liferay Cloud CLI (lcp) under the hood.

Can I import a local SQL file without using Liferay Cloud?

Yes.

ldev db import --file /path/to/backup.sql.gz --force

Is db files-download a generic file migration command?

No. It is specifically for Document Library content from Liferay Cloud backups.

If the files come from another source, copy them manually and mount them with:

ldev db files-mount --path /path/to/manual/doclib

Can I use only the portal and resource commands?

Yes. If you already have a running Liferay instance and credentials, you can use portal, resource, and ai workflows without adopting the full local runtime.

Which Liferay versions are supported?

ldev is designed for modern Liferay DXP 7.4 environments (including common quarterly/update lines).

Practical guidance:

• If your project is on DXP 7.4, ldev commands and workflows are the primary supported target.
• If your environment is older or heavily customized, some endpoints/behaviors may differ and require command-level workarounds.
• When in doubt, validate in your target runtime with:

ldev portal check
ldev portal inventory sites
ldev portal inventory structures --site /guest --with-templates --json

If one of these baseline commands fails due to version-specific API differences, treat that runtime as partially compatible and document the gap in your project notes.

Why are resource commands important?

Because they let you export, review, import, and migrate structures, templates, ADTs, and fragments as files instead of manual UI steps.

What does ldev ai install actually do?

It bootstraps the repo for coding agents by installing AGENTS.md, managed skills, and optional project overlays.