Ubuntu Hacks: Make Live CD Data Persistent

Wouldn't it be handy if the user walks up to any random computer, insert a copy of the Ubuntu Live CD, plug in a USB key, boot it up, and have a fully working system with the own documents, settings, and programs - without modifying the computer in any way? A little-known feature of the Ubuntu Dapper Drake Live CD allows the user to do exactly that. When it starts up, it searches for a volume that has been given the label casper-cow and uses it to store documents, themes, and even extra programs that the user installs.