Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Error in repository initialization

Error in repository initialization on openSUSE 12.1, zypper lr output provided.

Quick Answer: Delete the problematic repository entry by running "zypper rm " and then refresh the list with "zypper lr".

Error in repository initialization is an issue that affects users of OpenSUSE 12.1 who attempt to use YaST software manager. This error occurs when the system fails to properly refresh the Synergy service from its repository, resulting in a parse error due to undefined entity 'copy'. As a result, the user is unable to delete this repository entry.

This issue can be frustrating for users who need to troubleshoot and resolve the problem quickly. In this guide, we will walk through the steps to identify and fix the cause of the error, providing two alternative methods to resolve the issue.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason for this error is that the repository index file (repoindex.xml) contains an undefined entity 'copy'. This can happen when the repository is not properly updated or corrupted during the update process. Additionally, outdated software packages or missing dependencies in the Synergy service may also cause this issue.
  • Another possible cause of this error could be a corrupted or incomplete repository index file due to network issues or other system problems.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Delete the problematic repository entry

  1. Step 1: Open YaST software manager and navigate to 'Software Repositories' section.
  2. Step 2: Select the repository that is causing the error (in this case, 'repo-non-oss') and click on the 'Edit' button.
  3. Step 3: In the 'Edit Repository' dialog box, scroll down to the 'Repositories' tab and select the 'repoindex.xml' file.
  4. Step 4: Click on the 'Remove' button next to the repository entry to delete it.
  5. Step 5: Confirm that you want to remove the repository by clicking 'OK'.

Disable and re-enable the problematic service

  1. Step 1: Open YaST system settings and navigate to 'Services' section.
  2. Step 2: Select the Synergy service (http://synergy-foss.org/pm/projects/synergy/repository) and click on the 'Edit' button.
  3. Step 3: In the 'Service Editor' dialog box, uncheck the 'Enable' checkbox next to the Synergy service.
  4. Step 4: Click 'OK' to save the changes.
  5. Step 5: Restart YaST software manager and verify if the error persists. If it does, re-enable the Synergy service by checking the 'Enable' checkbox.

💡 Conclusion

By following one of these two methods, you should be able to resolve the Error in repository initialization issue with YaST software manager on OpenSUSE 12.1. Remember to back up any important data before making changes to your system.

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