I want to create a backup of my Linux system, including user files, from the command line. I tried using Timeshift but it doesn’t have a CLI argument to include a folder.

I found a guide on dev.to that explains how to use Timeshift from the command line, but it doesn’t mention how to include user files. According to ItsFOSS, Timeshift is designed to protect system files and settings, not user data, so user home directories are excluded by default.

I came across a list of backup programs for Linux on Slant, and BackInTime appears to be the best.

Has anyone used BackInTime to backup the whole system including user files? Are there any other tools that you would recommend?

Edit: would also be nice if it had similar features to Timeshift, like incremental snapshots, weekly snapshots, list, restore and delete snapshots, etc.

  • PumpkinDrama@reddthat.comOP
    1·
    8 months ago

    Do you know where I can find a guide explaining how to set up periodic snapshots using rsync and how to restore to a previous snapshot?

    • Dran@lemmy.world
      12·
      8 months ago

      Rsync is more “copy on steroids” than “backup utility”. Many people use it as a backup tool because it allows very lightweight syncs between a source and a destination. It has no concept of snapshots or restores, it’s just copying files. You’d have to build a snapshot system around rsync. It’s not the solution you think you’re looking for, but by the time you figure out how to use it it’s the solution you probably always wanted. If that makes any sense

    • TGHOST-V0@lemmy.ml
      1·
      8 months ago

      for snapshot depending your filesystem, the function included/built-in, to manage it, can be better.

      I agree with dan’s comment,
      Use rsync first to sync your home, or wallpapers,
      You will figure out, how it work, with the good options,

      And then you will do an script or crontab for you personnally, depending what you want to save, how, and how many times.

      Rsync, can restore files, delete files. Basycally its an file manager XD
      Like for /etc/ you maybe want to replace file and do an copy of it before if they have the same name. But not for your picture’s folder.

      Learn, and read doc of rsync, use it, on low importance files, and you will manage regarding your needs :).

      OFC you can ask for specific help,
      I just dont want to tell you how to do something if im not sure its good regardings your needs.

      Edit : Check “tar” too maybe,