dotfiles

Manage dotfiles repositories with GNU Stow and Git.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles --skill dotfiles
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dotfiles
Source: https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles/tree/main/packages/claude/.claude/skills/dotfiles
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles --skill dotfiles

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you manage a centralized dotfiles repository and apply consistent configurations across multiple machines using stow and a defined workflow. It covers structuring, setup, syncing changes, and maintenance.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Repo structure analysis and auditing: Review your dotfiles layout and verify that essential packages exist under packages/.
  • New machine setup: Clone the repository and run the installer to apply configurations to a fresh system.
  • Syncing changes: Pull updates from other machines and re-apply them to maintain consistency.
  • Maintenance & package management: Manage tool configurations (nvim, shell, etc.) and apply changes via stow.

Quick Start

Run ./install.sh to apply all configured dotfiles to your home directory on a new machine.

Frequently Asked Questions about dotfiles

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I manage dotfiles across multiple machines with synchronization?▼

Synchronize dotfiles by maintaining a centralized Git repository structured with GNU Stow packages. Clone the repository on each machine and run install.sh to apply configurations, then pull updates from other machines and re-apply stow to keep all systems consistent.

What's the best way to set up dotfiles on a new machine?▼

Clone your dotfiles repository and execute ./install.sh to automatically apply all configured packages to your home directory. Stow symlinks your packaged configurations without manual file copying.

How does GNU Stow work for managing dotfiles?▼

Stow creates symbolic links from a centralized package directory to your home directory, avoiding duplication. Organize configs under packages/ and stow applies them uniformly across machines.

Can I use dotfiles management with version control?▼

Yes. Git tracks your dotfiles repository for version history and cross-machine updates. Push configuration changes from one machine and pull them on others, then re-apply stow to synchronize.

What environment do dotfiles require to work?▼

Dotfiles require GNU/Linux or macOS with a shell environment, GNU Stow installed, and Git for version control. The provided install.sh automates application on compatible systems.

How do I add or remove tool configurations in my dotfiles?▼

Manage tool configurations by adding or removing package directories under packages/ for each tool (nvim, shell, etc.), then run stow to apply changes or git push to distribute updates across machines.