Chromebook Crostini backup/restore

Chromebooks have steadily evolved from being modest web-browsing machines to versatile tools capable of running Linux applications through a feature known as Crostini. This Linux container environment enables users to install and manage Linux programs alongside Chrome OS. As powerful as this setup is, it also introduces the need for regular backup and restore procedures to ensure users don’t lose valuable data, configurations, or development environments. Managing Crostini backups is crucial, especially when switching devices or performing a system powerwash.

What is Crostini?

Crostini is the codename for the project that brought Linux support to Chrome OS. It allows users to run a Linux container using LXD or Termina VM within the Chrome OS environment. This means you can install packages via the terminal, run development environments like VS Code, or use command-line utilities as you would on a typical Linux distribution.

The integration is seamless, but it doesn’t come with built-in options for automatically backing up your Linux container’s data. To avoid potential data loss due to system updates, device resets, or corruption, users must know how to manually back up and restore their Crostini containers.

Why Crostini Backups Are Important

Although Chrome OS syncs user data through Google services, Crostini operates in a self-contained Linux container. This means that:

• System settings, installed packages, and files inside the Linux environment are not synced to the cloud.
• Powerwashing your Chromebook will permanently delete all Crostini data unless manually backed up.
• Advanced users often install sensitive software or scripts that should be preserved between migrations or resets.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to back up and restore the entire Crostini container or specific parts of it, depending on the user’s needs.

Backing Up Crostini Manually

The most reliable method of backing up a Crostini environment involves exporting the container’s virtual disk image. This allows users to recreate their working environment exactly as it was.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Files in Chrome OS and head to the Linux Files section.
2. Backup your personal files into this directory if they are stored elsewhere within Linux.
3. Open the Linux Terminal and use the tar command to compress your home folder:

tar -cvzf linux_backup.tar.gz ~

This command creates an archive of your Linux home directory. You can then move this .tar.gz archive to your Google Drive, an external USB drive, or any other safe storage location.

Restoring Crostini from Backup

To restore the Linux environment, you first need to re-enable Linux on your Chromebook from settings if it has been reset or Powerwashed. Once enabled:

1. Transfer your previously saved linux_backup.tar.gz file into the Linux Files directory.
2. Open the Terminal and enter:

tar -xvzf linux_backup.tar.gz -C ~

This will restore all the files and configurations from the backup into your current Linux environment. However, you may still need to reinstall some packages using apt or other package managers.

Using Crostini Export and Import Feature

Chrome OS also lets users export and import entire Linux containers. This includes installed applications, files, and configurations. Here’s how:

Export a Linux Container

1. Open Chrome OS Settings.
2. Navigate to Developers > Linux development environment.
3. Click Backup & Restore and then choose Backup.
4. Pick an export location, such as an external drive or Google Drive.

Import a Linux Container

1. Re-enable the Linux environment via the same Settings panel.
2. Click Restore from the Backup & Restore section.
3. Select the previously exported .tini file and allow the system to import the container.

This method provides a more comprehensive backup compared to just archiving the home directory. It ensures system-level configurations and installed software are preserved.

Best Practices for Crostini Backups

To ensure data safety and quick recovery in case of an issue, consider the following best practices:

• Regular Backups: Schedule weekly or monthly backups depending on how frequently changes occur within your Linux environment.
• Use External Storage: Always keep at least one backup on a separate device like a USB flash drive or external hard disk.
• Cloud Sync: Leverage Google Drive to store backup archives to ensure remote recovery if your device is lost or damaged.
• Script Your Setup: For developers, scripting your setup using shell scripts or a list of apt packages can speed up environment rebuilding.

Advanced Tools and Automation

For users who need frequent or specialized backups, tools like rsync or automated cron jobs can be employed. However, these require a deeper knowledge of Linux command-line utilities. For instance:

rsync -av --delete ~/ /mnt/chromeos/removable/USBDrive/linux_backup/

This command backs up the home directory to an external USB drive, mirroring all changes. It’s a powerful way to keep incremental backups up-to-date without needing to re-archive everything each time.

Potential Limitations and Issues

While Crostini’s backup options have matured over the years, it’s important to note some limitations:

• Encrypted backups aren’t supported by default (you’ll need third-party tools or encrypted storage).
• Container exports can take considerable time depending on disk size.
• Restorations may fail on different Chromebook models if kernel or container version mismatch occurs.

Conclusion

Chrome OS’s Linux environment offers great power and flexibility, particularly for developers and tech-savvy users. However, with great power comes great responsibility — particularly the responsibility of managing data persistence through backups. Whether you choose a simple compressed archive or the more robust container export method, understanding and regularly practicing backup procedures can save hours of frustration and ensure a seamless transition between devices or system resets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I automate Crostini backups?
  Yes, you can create custom shell scripts and use tools like cron or rsync to automate regular backups of specific directories or the entire container.
• Where is the Linux container stored on a Chromebook?
  It resides in a hidden partition managed by Termina VM. Users don’t access it directly but can back up data stored within Linux Files or use Chrome OS’s built-in export options.
• Do I need Linux knowledge to back up Crostini?
  No, using the built-in Backup & Restore utility requires no Linux experience. However, command-line tools offer more control and flexibility for tech-savvy users.
• Is it safe to move the backup files to Google Drive?
  Yes, but for security, you may choose to encrypt your .tar.gz or .tini files before uploading if they contain sensitive information.
• What does .tini stand for in exported container files?
  It’s Chrome OS’s format for storing and restoring container data; the extension doesn’t have a standard Linux meaning but is used for container export/import on Chromebooks.