In the first part, we discussed and explained how to use Reflector for optimizing your Arch Linux mirror list. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out How to Use Reflector for Optimizing Your Arch Linux Mirror List for detailed instructions.
Keeping your Arch Linux system fast and reliable requires an up-to-date and efficient mirror list. This guide will show you how to automate the process using Reflector and a systemd timer.
Configuring Reflector
The /etc/xdg/reflector/reflector.conf file allows you to customize how Reflector selects mirrors. Here are some typical configuration parameters:
Example /etc/xdg/reflector/reflector.conf:
--protocol https
--sort rate
--country US
--save /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist
Automating Updates with Systemd
Create and configure a systemd timer to run Reflector periodically:
Timer File
To edit or create the timer configuration, use the command:
sudo nano /usr/lib/systemd/system/reflector.timer
Add the following content:
[Unit]
Description=Refresh Pacman mirrorlist weekly with Reflector.
[Timer]
OnCalendar=weekly
Persistent=true
AccuracySec=1us
RandomizedDelaySec=12h
[Install]
WantedBy=timers.target
Explanation of Timer Parameters:
- OnCalendar=weekly: Runs the task once every week.
- Persistent=true: Ensures the timer catches up on missed runs after system downtime.
- AccuracySec=1us: Sets the scheduling precision.
- RandomizedDelaySec=12h: Spreads the timer’s activation within a 12-hour window to reduce mirror server load.
Enable and Start the Timer
sudo systemctl enable reflector.timer
sudo systemctl start reflector.timer
These commands activate and ensure the timer runs at system startup.
With these steps, your Arch Linux mirror list will update regularly, keeping your package downloads fast and efficient.
Check Timer Status
You can verify if the timer is active and scheduled by running:
systemctl list-timers
This command displays all active timers and their next scheduled activation, ensuring your mirror list updates are properly automated.