Synchronize Configuration Files with Ubuntu One | Guide
Synchronizing Configuration Files with Ubuntu One
Ubuntu One provides a convenient method for file and folder synchronization. However, the process for syncing configuration files isn't immediately obvious.
Through the utilization of Ubuntu One’s folder synchronization capabilities, or by employing symbolic links, configuration files can be synchronized across multiple computers.
Alternative Cloud Storage Solutions
The techniques described are not exclusive to Ubuntu One. Similar functionality can be achieved with other cloud storage synchronization services, such as Dropbox.
This approach extends beyond simply syncing between Ubuntu systems; it functions effectively with a variety of cloud storage platforms.
Benefits of Synchronization
Beyond facilitating access to configuration files on different machines, this method also establishes an online backup of your crucial data.
This backup functionality is particularly valuable, even in scenarios where you do not operate multiple Ubuntu installations. It provides an extra layer of data security.
- Data Backup: An online copy of your important files is maintained.
- Cross-Platform Access: Configuration files are available on all synced computers.
- Versatility: The method works with various cloud storage providers.
Therefore, implementing configuration file synchronization offers both convenience and enhanced data protection.
Configuring Ubuntu One
Prior to initiating file synchronization, ensure Ubuntu One is properly configured if it hasn't been already. Access Ubuntu One by clicking the mail icon located on the panel, then selecting "Ubuntu One" from the options presented.
A new account can be created by clicking the "Join Now" button. This will begin the account creation process.
If an account already exists, select the "I already have an account!" link on other computers and log in using your credentials.
Following successful login, a dedicated "Ubuntu One" folder will appear within your home directory. Files placed inside this folder will be automatically synchronized across all connected devices.
Configuration Folder Synchronization
By default, configuration folders are not visible. To view them, navigate to the View menu within your file manager and select the option to "Show Hidden Files."
Upon doing so, your configuration files will become apparent. Each of these files and folders is distinguished by a leading . – a standard convention for hiding items within a Linux environment.
To initiate synchronization, right-click on the desired folder. Then, navigate to the Ubuntu One submenu and select the "Synchronize This Folder" option.
A visual confirmation, in the form of a green check mark, will appear on each folder currently undergoing synchronization.
All folders that are actively being synchronized can be viewed within the Ubuntu One window.
Before synchronization can commence, the Ubuntu One configuration window must be accessed on any other computers you intend to use.
On each of these computers, ensure that the "Sync locally?" check box is enabled.
Following this setup, Ubuntu One will maintain the configuration folder's consistency across all of your connected computers.
It's important to note that this methodology can be applied to synchronize any folder of your choosing.
File Synchronization in Ubuntu One
Direct synchronization of individual files via the right-click menu is not supported within Ubuntu One. Attempting to do so will result in the synchronization options being disabled.
To achieve synchronization of a specific configuration file, it must first be relocated to your designated Ubuntu One folder. This can be accomplished using standard cut and paste operations within your file manager, or alternatively, through the mv command executed in the terminal.
As an illustration, the .bashrc file has been moved into the Ubuntu One folder. Consequently, the file is no longer present in its original location within the home directory.
A symbolic link can then be established using the ln -s command. This link will point from the file's new location within the Ubuntu One directory back to its original expected location. For example, to link the .bashrc file, the following command would be used:
ln -s /home/howtogeek/Ubuntu\ One/.bashrc /home/howtogeek
The general syntax for this command is:
ln -s /path/to/file /original/location
It's important to note that creating a symbolic link *within* the Ubuntu One directory itself is not permitted, as Ubuntu One is designed to ignore symlinks.
Upon verifying the home folder, a symbolic link to the file residing in the Ubuntu One folder will be visible.
On any additional computers utilizing Ubuntu One, the original configuration file must be removed. Then, the same ln -s command should be executed to generate the corresponding symbolic link.
This methodology can be applied to synchronize any file, regardless of its location. However, in many cases, simply copying the file directly into the Ubuntu One folder represents a more straightforward approach.