Syncing iTerm2 Preferences and Profiles Using Git

Introduction

In the world of software development, maintaining a consistent and efficient working environment across multiple machines is a common challenge. iTerm2, a highly favored terminal emulator for macOS users, offers a plethora of customization options. However, replicating these settings on different devices can be tedious. This blog post introduces an innovative solution: using Git, a powerful version control system, to sync your iTerm2 preferences and profiles across various workstations.

Why Sync iTerm2 Settings with Git?

Git is renowned for its ability to manage source code versions, but its utility extends far beyond. By applying Git to iTerm2's configuration files, we can track changes, maintain consistency, and easily revert to previous settings if needed. This approach is especially beneficial for developers who work on multiple machines or collaborate with teams, ensuring everyone has access to the same terminal setup.

Preparing iTerm2 for Syncing

Before delving into Git, the first step is to configure iTerm2 to load preferences from a custom folder. This allows us to keep the configuration files in a directory that Git can track.

Locating and Moving Preferences

1. Locate Your Current iTerm2 Preferences: iTerm2 typically stores its preferences in the com.googlecode.iterm2.plist file located in ~/Library/Preferences/.
2. Choose and Prepare a Custom Folder for Git: Select or create a folder where you wish to store your iTerm2 settings. This folder will be used as your Git repository.

Moving Preferences to the Custom Folder

The crucial part of this setup is to ensure that your existing iTerm2 preferences are in the custom folder.

1. Move the Preferences File: Transfer the com.googlecode.iterm2.plist file from its original location to your chosen custom folder.
2. Configure iTerm2: Open iTerm2, go to 'iTerm2 > Preferences', and under the 'General' tab, check the box labeled ‘Load preferences from a custom folder or URL’. Point it to the folder where you moved the com.googlecode.iterm2.plist file.

Setting Up the Git Repository

Now, let’s set up a Git repository to track changes to these preferences.

1. Initialize the Repository: In the custom folder, initialize a new Git repository. This can be done by running git init in your terminal within the folder.
2. First Commit: Add the com.googlecode.iterm2.plist file to the repository using git add and then commit it using git commit. This initial commit marks the starting point of your iTerm2 configuration tracking.

Syncing Across Devices

To keep your iTerm2 setup consistent across multiple devices:

1. Clone the Repository: On your other machines, clone the Git repository to the same custom folder path.
2. Configure iTerm2 on Other Machines: Similar to the first machine, configure iTerm2 to load preferences from the custom folder where the Git repository is cloned.

Best Practices

• Regular Updates: Regularly commit and push changes to your iTerm2 settings to the Git repository. On other devices, pull these updates to stay synchronized.
• Handle Merge Conflicts: Be cautious of potential merge conflicts. Resolve these by choosing the most recent or appropriate settings.
• Automate Syncing: Consider automating the commit and pull processes with scripts to ensure your settings are always up-to-date.

Conclusion

Syncing iTerm2 preferences using Git is an efficient way to maintain a consistent development environment across multiple machines. This method not only saves time but also adds a layer of version control to your terminal settings, enhancing your overall workflow.

Additional Resources

• Git Documentation
• iTerm2 Customization Guide