Backup System
The pathmaster backup system provides comprehensive PATH and shell configuration backup capabilities with flexible modes and storage options.
Backup Modes
Default Mode
Backs up both PATH and shell configurations
Creates timestamped backups
Maintains shell configuration integrity
Recommended for most operations
PATH-only Mode
Backs up only PATH environment entries
Faster operation for PATH-specific changes
Useful for temporary modifications
Minimal disk usage
Shell-only Mode
Backs up shell configuration files
Preserves shell customizations
Protects against configuration errors
Essential for shell-specific changes
Mode Selection
# Default mode (both PATH and shell)
pathmaster --backup-mode default
# PATH-only backups
pathmaster --backup-mode path
# Shell-only backups
pathmaster --backup-mode shell
# Toggle between modes
pathmaster --backup-mode switch
Backup Storage
Location
Default:
~/.pathmaster/backups/Organized by timestamp
Separate directories for PATH and shell backups
Clear naming convention for easy identification
Format
PATH backups stored in JSON format
Shell configurations stored as .bak files
Timestamped filenames
Maintain original permissions
Backup Management
Creating Backups
Automatic backup before modifications
Manual backup creation available
Configurable backup frequency
Detailed backup logging
Viewing History
# Show available backups
pathmaster history
# Lists:
# - Backup timestamps
# - Backup types
# - Storage locations
Restoration
# Restore latest backup
pathmaster restore
# Restore specific backup
pathmaster restore --timestamp 20241218120000
Best Practices
Regular Backups
Create backups before major changes
Use appropriate backup modes
Verify backup creation
Test restoration process
Backup Management
Review backup history regularly
Clean old backups periodically
Verify backup integrity
Document major changes