Sync User Home

These instructions are for saving the user settings on a single system into the "Default System" space, without having to go through the process of updating an install key. You might do this, for example, if you only have one or two systems to set up, but want to be sure that the quick reset process restores things like Firefox home pages, application preferences, etc., should something go awry. You might also do this to test the reset to make sure it works as expected prior to updating an install key. Since updating an install key can require 20 minutes or more, this method can save a ton of time during the testing phase, or if you only have a device or two to setup. Please note: if you do not understand any portion of the previous statements, be sure to review Customization page to gain a full understanding of how the ubermix recovery process works prior to proceeding.

First, follow the steps on the Customization page under "Rebuilding the Base Image" to get your device setup just like you want it. If you plan to place a large amount of additional data in the user home folder, you might also consider "Resizing the Base System Partition" (also on the Customization page) to make sure you have enough room to store the user files.

Once you have your device ready, follow these steps to sync the user home folder:

1. Reboot the computer and press ESC immediately after your computer manufacturer's splash screen disappears (you should see a flashing cursor in the top left corner for a few seconds - press the escape key within 3 seconds to view the menu.)
2. Select "Normal Boot" from the menu (but don't press enter) and press the "e" key on your keyboard
3. Select the line in the box that begins with the word "linux" and move the cursor to the end of the line. Backspace over everything after the word "quiet", then add the word "single" (no quotes).
4. Select the line in the box that begins with the word "initrd" and move the cursor to the end of the line. Backspace over the four letters "aufs" and replace them with "generic". Do not add any spaces.
5. Press "ctrl+x" on your keyboard to boot.

After a few seconds, you should see the recovery menu. Once it appears:

1. Arrow down to select the "root" option and press the enter key.
2. NOTE: If you have created a swap file or enabled hibernate, run first: swapoff /home/.swapfile
3. When you see a prompt, type in "image_prep.sh" (no quotes) and press the enter key
4. When the task completes, type "reboot" and press the enter key.

Done! Your Default System space will be in sync with your user home folder and a quick reset will automatically restore your custom settings.