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Discover how to use `rsync` with the `--relative` flag to copy multiple subdirectories seamlessly in a single command.
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Mastering rsync: How to Efficiently Copy Several Subdirectories in One Command

When it comes to file synchronization and copying on UNIX-like systems, rsync is a tool that stands out for its versatility and efficiency. However, many users encounter challenges when trying to copy several subdirectories at once using a single command. In this guide, we will tackle the specific problem and provide a clear solution that will enhance your rsync skills.

The Problem: Copying Multiple Subdirectories

You may have faced a situation where you want to copy multiple subdirectories from a source directory to a remote destination using rsync without having to run multiple commands. For example, if you want to copy the following two subdirectories:

subdirectory1

subdirectory2

A naive approach could be to run the command like this:

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However, this does not work as expected because instead of copying the entire subdirectories, the command copies the files within them. As a result, the ls /remote/ command shows only the contents instead of the intended structure. Your desired output should display both subdirectory1 and subdirectory2 under /remote:

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The Solution: Using the --relative Flag

To overcome this limitation, rsync provides a handy feature known as the --relative flag (or -R). This flag allows you to keep the full path of the source directories during the transfer, preserving their structure in the destination.

Command Structure

Here’s how to structure your command using the --relative option effectively:

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Breaking Down the Command

-a: Archive mode, which preserves permissions and timestamps.

-v: Verbose output, providing detailed information about the transfer process.

--delete: Deletes files that are no longer present in the source from the destination.

--progress: Shows progress during the transfer, allowing you to track the operation.

--relative: Ensures that the entire path from the specified source directories is preserved on the destination.

Illustrating with an Example

To better understand this solution, let’s walk through a practical example.

Set Up the Scenario:
First, create the necessary directories and files to simulate the folder structure.

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Running the rsync Command:

Execute the command with the --relative flag:

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Output Verification:
Check the output from the rsync command, which should confirm the transfer of subdirectories and their contents:

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Finally, verify the new directory structure in the destination by checking the contents of dst:

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You should see the following structure reflected accurately:

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Conclusion

By utilizing the --relative flag with rsync, you can streamline the process of copying multiple subdirectories from a source to a destination in just one command. This method not only saves time but also preserves the directory structure, making your file transfers far more effective. We hope this insight into using rsync enhances your command line expertise and efficiency in managing file synchronization tasks.