Copying local user home directories to open directory home directories

[awingnut]

I am trying to migrate users from standalone machines to an Open Directory Panther server. My problem is copying user home directories currently on the local drive to their new home directory on the xserve. I have tried connecting the new home directory on the xserve and then used 'ditto' to copy the local home directory contents. Unfortunately, 'ditto' seems to be an all or nothing utility. There are several files that cannot be copied due to a permissions problem (in spite of being root) and so 'ditto' copies nothing. If I use 'cp' the ownerships are not properly preserved. Has anyone successfully accomplished this? TIA.

 

[wags22]

I would suggest using Carbon Copy Cloner (shareware). It will copy a directory or even a whole disk,including the hidden files.

Hope this helps.

 

[awingnut]

Thanks for the reply. I looked at that but I didn't think it would help as it seemed to be for cloning HDs rather then just directories. I'll have to give it a try.

 

[awingnut]

I guess I am missing something. Network linked disks do not show up in CCCs source or target selection lists. How do I clone the user's home directory? TIA.

 

[wags22]

I'm sorry, I haven't tried using CCC in a networked environment.

However, having re-read your original post I offer this...

cp has a -p option that will preserve the original files' owner, group, permissions, and timestamp (read from a linux info page on cp).

Hope this helps.
Jonathan

 

[awingnut]

Thanks. I tried that and it doesn't work. I also tried 'ditto'. Both either don't copy at all or screw up ownership/permissions.