What is the primary purpose of the show | compare command in Junos?

The primary purpose of the show | compare command in Junos is to compare the current configuration with the last committed configuration. This command is particularly useful when a user makes changes to the configuration but has not yet committed them. By using this command, a network administrator can evaluate what changes have been made compared to the previously committed version. This comparison helps ensure that any unintended changes can be identified before they are applied, allowing for better control over network configurations and reducing the risk of misconfigurations.

In this context, understanding the current versus committed configurations is vital for managing network devices effectively, as it provides insight into potential discrepancies and allows administrators to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with or discard pending changes.