Version upgrade of Ubuntu Desktop to Natty uninstalls dns/dhcp

I had an instance of Ubuntu Desktop that I also use as my home network hub. It runs several network services, notably DNS (BIND9) and DHCP.

Upgrading to Natty *removed* both DNS and DHCP services, and installed reolvconf. It also reinstated avahi. Thankfully, it did not destroy configuration files beyond that.

These changes were not announced beyond the very long lists of package repackagings, packages obsoleted etc. Ideally, they should be optional and triggered by an appropriate dialog. Next best would be to prominently report such major behavior changes in the log. Next would be to indicate in the release notes that such changes would take place.

This behavior is new to Natty. Previous upgrades never tried to force desktops not to have active network duties, or otherwise change basic system functionality (except for bugs).

Once the problem was diagnosed, it took relatively little time to reinstall the missing services, identify the unwanted additions, remove/disable such, and clean up. However, this mishap, happening at the same time as deep changes in the UI and the attenant unstability, did negatively impact the Ubuntu experience.

No fix is required in past upgrade processes; however, I would really like this kind of changes to be better controlled in future upgrades! Please pass the information as appropriate before closing this report.