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rsync_GUI 1.5.2

Prepare, review and run backups and synchronization tasks on Linux through a clear graphical interface.

Version 1.5.2For Linux Mint and Debian/Ubuntu

1. Overview

rsync_GUI is a graphical interface for rsync. It copies files to local folders, USB drives and previously mounted network or cloud destinations.

Safe first step: Run Preview before every transfer. It lists planned changes without copying or deleting files.
AreaPurpose
StartCheck source and destination, run a preview and start the transfer.
SettingsChoose language, source, destination and copy mode.
BookmarksSave and load recurring backup profiles.
SelectionBack up the complete source or selected files and folders.
ExclusionsExclude caches, temporary data and other unwanted files.
LogReview the preview, progress, rsync output and errors.

2. Installation and upgrade

  1. Download rsync_GUI_1.5.2_DE_EN.zip.
  2. Extract the ZIP archive.
  3. Open a terminal in the rsync_GUI_1.5.2 folder.
  4. Install the Debian package with the following command.
sudo apt install ./rsync-gui_1.5.2_all.deb

APT installs missing dependencies. Settings, bookmarks and logs are retained during an upgrade.

Reinstall

sudo apt install --reinstall ./rsync-gui_1.5.2_all.deb

3. First start and paths

After installation, start rsync_GUI from the desktop icon, application menu or terminal:

rsync-gui
  1. Select the source folder under Settings.
  2. Choose the destination folder.
  3. Connect network or cloud destinations through Nemo first.
  4. Open Selection and review the backup scope.
  5. Review cache and temporary-file rules under Exclusions.
SMB and WebDAV: Addresses such as smb:// and davs:// must already be mounted by Linux. rsync then uses the local path provided by GVfs.

4. Copy, synchronize and preview

ModeBehaviour
Copy / updateNew and changed files are transferred. Files that exist only at the destination are retained.
SynchronizeThe destination is matched to the source. Files that exist only at the destination may be deleted after a successful transfer.
  1. Click Preview.
  2. Review new, changed and possibly deleted paths in the log.
  3. Correct the source, destination or exclusions when necessary.
  4. Only then start Copy / synchronize.
  5. Monitor progress, speed and remaining time.

5. Bookmarks and language

A bookmark stores the source, destination, mode, selection, exclusions and additional rsync parameters.

  1. Configure the required settings.
  2. Open Bookmarks.
  3. Select New bookmark and enter a name.
  4. Load a profile later by double-clicking it or selecting Apply.
Passwords: Passwords are not stored in bookmarks. Network credentials remain in the Linux keyring or GVfs.

Change the interface under Language / Sprache in Settings. The open window switches immediately without a restart.

6. Desktop icon and application files

Version 1.5.2 installs the pink rsync_GUI icon for the application window and menu. It also creates an executable launcher on the user's desktop.

FileLocation
Settings/usr/share/rsync-gui/.config/settings.json
Bookmarks/usr/share/rsync-gui/.config/bookmarks.json
Log/usr/share/rsync-gui/.config/rsync_GUI.log

7. Troubleshooting

Source or destination is unavailable

Select the path again. Connect network or cloud destinations in Nemo first, then check them again in rsync_GUI.

rsync returns code 23

Return code 23 means a partial transfer. The Log tab lists the affected paths and exact reason, such as missing permissions or unreadable files.

The configuration folder is not writable

Reinstall the package as the signed-in desktop user with sudo apt install --reinstall. The installer assigns the configuration folder to that user.

The desktop icon is missing

Run the installation again. The installer resolves the user's localized desktop folder automatically.

Documentation for rsync_GUI version 1.5.2 with GTK 3, rsync and GVfs.