How can I make ZFS datasets mount automatically on boot?

Question

I use ZFS to store my data, including configuration files, for my desktop PC, so it's important for my datasets to mount automatically on boot. I couldn't for the life of me figure out how to do this in Ubuntu 19.10.

At first, when I ran zfs list and zpool list, there was no output; it was empty. Then, after figuring out how to import my pools, they still wouldn't mount.

score 4 · Answer 1 · answered Nov 05 '19 at 00:14

4

The correct way to do this is to make sure three unit files are enabled to start on boot:

zfs.target, which is the overarching target for all of ZFS
zfs-import.service, which imports zpools at boot
zfs-mount.service, which mounts all datasets at boot

These units have dependencies set up correctly, so you can simply run:

systemctl enable zfs.target zfs-import.service zfs-mount.service

to ensure they are all turned on. After this, reboot to test; your ZFS datasets should show up.

answered Nov 05 '19 at 00:14

Leonora Tindall

333

This worked for me on 18.04 as well, despite zfs.target not being found (as outlined in more detail in this question about how the selection of datasets-to-mount works internally). If you happen to know more and could provide an answer to my question, I'd appreciate it. – lucidbrot Jul 15 '20 at 14:59

score 1 · Answer 2 · answered Dec 07 '22 at 06:18

1

I have found that zfs-zed.service which updates zpool cache and zfs-list cache to no longer be running after a systemctl suspend and require manual restart, if I forget that the caches don't get updated for any later changes for next reboot. I'll improve this with details shortly to replicate and try a clean install on the weekend and or move this to the to the proper place. Openzfs 2.1.5 with compatibility set to openzfs-2.1-linux. Ubuntu 22.04 and proxmox hacked with zsys sharing boot and root pools.

answered Dec 07 '22 at 06:18

Michael Adams

11

This does not provide an answer to the question. Once you have sufficient reputation you will be able to comment on any post; instead, provide answers that don't require clarification from the asker. - From Review – Vasilisa Dec 10 '22 at 16:26
As it’s currently written, your answer is unclear. Please [edit] to add additional details that will help others understand how this addresses the question asked. You can find more information on how to write good answers in the help center. – Community Dec 15 '22 at 12:05
1

Personally, I find it a bit frustrating that people are told to comment when they aren't able to do so. – Leonora Tindall Dec 17 '22 at 00:43

How can I make ZFS datasets mount automatically on boot?

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