1. Introduction

Autodir offers a simple and effective means to create directories like home directories in a transparent manner. It relies on the autofs protocol for its operation.

This document explains how to create directories on demand using Autodir in a transparent way to the applications. This document also explains using the transparent backup feature that is possible with Autodir, without system downtime for backup purpose; this applies for all directories managed by Autodir.

1.1. Copyright and License

This document, Autodir HOWTO, is copyrighted (c) 2004 by Venkata Ramana Enaganti. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, 559 Nathan Abbott Way, Stanford, California 94305, USA.

Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.

1.2. Disclaimer

No liability for the contents of this document can be accepted. Use the concepts, examples and information at your own risk. There may be errors and inaccuracies, that could be damaging to your system. Proceed with caution, and although this is highly unlikely, the author(s) do not take any responsibility.

All copyrights are held by their by their respective owners, unless specifically noted otherwise. Use of a term in this document should not be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark. Naming of particular products or brands should not be seen as endorsements.

1.3. Feedback

Feedback is most certainly welcome for this document. Send your additions, comments and criticisms to the following email address : .

1.4. New Versions of this Document

The latest version of this HOWTO will be made available from http://www.intraperson.com/autodir/.

1.5. Credits / Contributors

In this document, I have the pleasure of acknowledging for language and technical review work: