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Useful apps · Syncthing

Syncthing: Sync a Folder Directly Between Two Devices

Copy folders between devices authorized by Device ID without storing them in the central cloud. This guide covers installation, practical steps, limitations, and how to stop using the app.

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Syncthing: Sync a Folder Directly Between Two Devices overview: When to use it, Install the official version, Try it, Use it safely, Turn it off or restore settings
An overview of this guide’s steps and checks, not a screenshot of the app.

Who this guide is for and what to prepare

  • First-time users of Syncthing
  • People who want to check the storage location and safety of data while reducing manual work

What you need

  • Check the processing target and storage location, and preserve the original data in another location
  • Check the official distribution source, supported OS, and required permissions

When to use it

Copy folders between devices authorized by Device ID without storing them in the central cloud.

Install the official version

Check the implementation for each OS from syncthing.net/downloads, open the Web UI of both devices and exchange Device IDs.

  1. Check the implementation for each OS from syncthing.net/downloads, open the web UI of both devices and exchange Device IDs.

Try it

Enter the other party's Device ID in [Add Remote Device]. Approve the additional request on the other party's device. Set the path and Folder ID in [Add Folder]. The other party specifies the storage location and approves sharing. Check if both devices are Up to Date and the contents match.

  1. Enter the other party's Device ID in [Add Remote Device]
  2. Approve the additional request on the other party's device
  3. Set the path and folder ID with [Add Folder]
  4. Specify the save destination and approve sharing on the other party's side
  5. Check if both devices are Up to Date and the contents match.

Use it safely

Sync also propagates deletions, not backups. Consider versioning, external backups, and public network settings.

Turn it off or restore settings

To temporarily stop communication, pause the device or folder on the web screen. To cancel sharing, remove the sharing partner on the target folder's edit screen. If you delete local files instead of stopping synchronization, the deletion may be propagated to the other party.

Limitations and requirements

  • Sync also propagates deletions, not backups. Consider versioning, external backups, and public network settings
  • Check the current specifications in the official documentation and reconfirm on-screen what you want to delete or overwrite.

Frequently asked questions

Is it a replacement for backup?

Since deletions and overwrites are also transmitted to the synchronization destination, synchronization is not an independent backup. Combine versioning and storage on separate media.

Will the actual files also be deleted by canceling synchronization?

Deleting Syncthing folder settings and deleting files on disk are different. After confirming that synchronization has stopped, decide to organize the storage location.

Official sources and verification date

Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.

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