Timeshift

Timeshift refers to two related concepts in media and computing. In media technology, time-shifting is the practice of delaying a broadcast so it can be watched at a later time. It enables viewers to pause live TV, rewind to rewatch segments, or resume playback after an interruption. Modern implementations include digital video recorders (DVRs), streaming catch-up services, and on-demand viewing that makes past broadcasts accessible beyond their original schedule.

In computing, Timeshift is the name of a Linux backup and system-restore utility. It is designed to create and manage snapshots of the operating system to allow recovery from misconfigurations, failed updates, or corrupted files. Timeshift typically supports two snapshot methods: rsync-based backups and Btrfs filesystem snapshots. Snapshots are created on a scheduled basis and can be automatically pruned to control storage use. The tool focuses on system files and configuration, with user data backed up separately if desired; it also offers exclusion options to omit certain directories. Restoring a snapshot returns the system to a previous state, without affecting the current user data unless chosen.

Timeshift the software is cross-distro and commonly used on Ubuntu-based distributions. It aims to provide a simple, safe, and reliable mechanism for system recovery, complementing regular personal data backups.