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Reloading configuration from disk allows Jenkins to pick up changes made directly to its filesystem without requiring a full restart. This is useful when you’ve edited config.xml, moved or renamed jobs via CLI, or updated your Jenkins home directory externally.

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When to Use “Reload Configuration from Disk”

Use this feature to apply external changes immediately:
ScenarioDescriptionCommand / UI Path
Update config.xmlEdit system settings or messagesvi $JENKINS_HOME/config.xml
Rename or move jobsRelocate job folders in the filesystemmv $JENKINS_HOME/jobs/old-job $JENKINS_HOME/jobs/new-job
Adjust security or plugin configsChange security realm, authorization strategy, or plugin filesN/A
Reloading configuration does not apply plugin installations or upgrades. For plugin changes, use Manage Plugins and restart if required.

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1. Update Configuration via the Jenkins UI

  1. Navigate to Dashboard → Manage Jenkins → Configure System.
  2. Find the System Message field.
  3. Enter a new message (e.g., “Welcome to KodeKloud”) and click Save.
  4. Verify the dashboard shows your updated system message.

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2. Edit Configuration on the Filesystem

  1. SSH into your Jenkins server and switch to the Jenkins home directory: 
    cd $JENKINS_HOME
  2. Open the main configuration file in your preferred editor: 
    vi config.xml
  3. Locate the <systemMessage> tag. Example before change: 
    <systemMessage>Welcome to coded.ku</systemMessage>
  4. Update it to your desired text: 
    <systemMessage>Welcome to Dasher Technologies</systemMessage>
  5. Save and exit the editor.
  6. Confirm the change: 
    grep -i systemMessage config.xml
    Output should be: 
    <systemMessage>Welcome to Dasher Technologies</systemMessage>
At this point, the Jenkins UI still displays the old message, since the configuration hasn’t been reloaded.

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3. Reload Configuration from Disk

  1. In Jenkins, go to Dashboard → Manage Jenkins.
  2. Scroll to Tools and Actions and click Reload Configuration from Disk.
  3. Confirm the prompt to proceed. Jenkins will re-import all configuration files.
After a few seconds, your dashboard’s System Message updates to “Welcome to Dasher Technologies.”
Performing a reload can briefly impact running jobs. Avoid frequent reloads during peak build activity.

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Benefits of Reloading from Disk

  • Instant application of file-based edits
  • No need for a full Jenkins restart
  • Applies to jobs, system settings, security, and folder configurations

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References

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