rsnapshot is an rsync-based filesystem snapshot utility. It can take incremental backups of local and remote filesystems for any number of machines. rsnapshot makes extensive use of hard links, so disk space is only used when absolutely necessary.
Using hard links, rsnapshot creates the illusion of multiple full backups, while only taking up the space of one full backup plus differences. When coupled with ssh, it is possible to take snapshots of remote filesystems as well.
Consequently, rsnapshot saves much more disk space. The amount of space required is roughly the size of one full backup, plus a copy of each additional file that is changed.
rsnapshot will typically be invoked as root by a cron job, or series of cron jobs. It is possible, however, to run as any arbitrary user with an alternate configuration file.
Depending on your configuration, it is quite possible to set up the software in only a few minutes. Files can be restored by the users who own them, without the root user getting involved.
It is written entirely in Perl with no module dependencies, and has been tested with versions 5.004 through 5.8.5.
Features include:
- Uses rsync to transfer data.
- Can be used over ssh.
- Supports multiple levels of backup such as monthly, weekly, and daily.
- Stores previous versions as actual files and hardlinks to save space.
- All versions of the backup are accessible as plain files.
- NFS mounted user restores.
- Filename filters.
- Removable media.
Website: rsnapshot.org
Support: FAQ, GitHub
Developer: Bruno Cornec, Andree Leidenfrost, Lars Rupp, Mike Roark
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
rsnapshot is written in Perl. Learn Perl with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Popular series | |
---|---|
The largest compilation of the best free and open source software in the universe. Each article is supplied with a legendary ratings chart helping you to make informed decisions. | |
Hundreds of in-depth reviews offering our unbiased and expert opinion on software. We offer helpful and impartial information. | |
The Big List of Active Linux Distros is a large compilation of actively developed Linux distributions. | |
Replace proprietary software with open source alternatives: Google, Microsoft, Apple, Adobe, IBM, Autodesk, Oracle, Atlassian, Corel, Cisco, Intuit, and SAS. | |
Awesome Free Linux Games Tools showcases a series of tools that making gaming on Linux a more pleasurable experience. This is a new series. | |
Machine Learning explores practical applications of machine learning and deep learning from a Linux perspective. We've written reviews of more than 40 self-hosted apps. All are free and open source. | |
New to Linux? Read our Linux for Starters series. We start right at the basics and teach you everything you need to know to get started with Linux. | |
Alternatives to popular CLI tools showcases essential tools that are modern replacements for core Linux utilities. | |
Essential Linux system tools focuses on small, indispensable utilities, useful for system administrators as well as regular users. | |
Linux utilities to maximise your productivity. Small, indispensable tools, useful for anyone running a Linux machine. | |
Surveys popular streaming services from a Linux perspective: Amazon Music Unlimited, Myuzi, Spotify, Deezer, Tidal. | |
Saving Money with Linux looks at how you can reduce your energy bills running Linux. | |
Home computers became commonplace in the 1980s. Emulate home computers including the Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, ZX81, Amstrad CPC, and ZX Spectrum. | |
Now and Then examines how promising open source software fared over the years. It can be a bumpy ride. | |
Linux at Home looks at a range of home activities where Linux can play its part, making the most of our time at home, keeping active and engaged. | |
Linux Candy reveals the lighter side of Linux. Have some fun and escape from the daily drudgery. | |
Getting Started with Docker helps you master Docker, a set of platform as a service products that delivers software in packages called containers. | |
Best Free Android Apps. We showcase free Android apps that are definitely worth downloading. There's a strict eligibility criteria for inclusion in this series. | |
These best free books accelerate your learning of every programming language. Learn a new language today! | |
These free tutorials offer the perfect tonic to our free programming books series. | |
Linux Around The World showcases usergroups that are relevant to Linux enthusiasts. Great ways to meet up with fellow enthusiasts. | |
Stars and Stripes is an occasional series looking at the impact of Linux in the USA. |