In modern working environments, synchronizing folders over a network is important to keep data consistent and up-to-date. Regardless of whether data needs to be exchanged between different locations, employees or servers, efficient synchronization ensures that everyone involved always has the same files available. With Syncovery as a versatile data synchronization tool, you have the option of not only automating these processes, but also flexibly adapting them to individual requirements.
Why should I synchronize folders over the network?
Network file synchronization ensures that all users have access to the latest files at all times without the need for manual updates. Automatic synchronization between different locations reduces potential file conflicts. It also significantly improves data security, as data can be restored promptly from other storage locations in the event of a system failure. The automatic distribution of centrally stored files optimizes the work process accordingly.
In addition, you can use Syncovery to synchronize your data between PCs and laptops. You only need a folder share on one device and Syncovery on the other.
Benefits of network file synchronization with Syncovery
- Manual / Attended mode: Syncovery can show you the suggested copy actions before copying, and you can confirm or cancel them.
- Automated synchronization: Syncovery offers the option to plan and perform synchronizations fully automatically.
- Real-time synchronization: Changes to a folder are immediately synchronized over the network, so that all users always have access to the latest files.
- Flexibility: Whether it is local drives, network drives or cloud storage – Syncovery supports a variety of storage locations.
Step-by-step instructions: How to synchronize folders over the network
With Syncovery, network file synchronization can be carried out in just a few steps. Below we have put together detailed instructions for you that explain the process:
- Create a folder share
In order to be able to copy files over the network, a folder must be shared. If the share has not yet been set up, you can do this in Windows File Explorer. For example, if you want to synchronize folders between two PCs, a share for the desired folder must be created on one of the PCs. This allows Syncovery to access the files on the other PC over the network and copy them.
To create a share, right-click on the folder in Windows File Explorer. Select “Properties” and switch the dialog box that appears to the “Sharing” tab. Now click on the “Share…” or “Advanced Share…” button to create the share. Make sure that the necessary rights are granted. If Syncovery is to be able to copy files from the other PC to this PC, read/write permissions must be available.
- Find the network path on the other PC
Open the File Explorer via the taskbar. Alternatively, you can access your documents and folders via the Start menu W or by pressing the Windows® logo key W and the E key at the same time.
Look in the directory tree on the left under “Network” to see if you can find the other PC and the shared folder there. You may be asked for the user name and password to access the share.
If you cannot see the other PC, you can type the computer name or IP address into the address bar (preceded by two backslashes), e.g. B. \\LAPTOP or \\192.168.12.21. The shares of the other PC should then appear.
You can also copy the network path here to use it in Syncovery. To do this, click on the path in the upper area (the address bar), whereupon the path is displayed as a copyable path. You can copy this with Ctrl-C and later paste it into Syncovery.
- Install and open Syncovery
Download the current version of Syncovery and install the program on your computer. Then start the software.
- Create synchronization profile
You can create the profile in wizard mode or in advanced mode.
- Wizard mode: Click “Perform synchronization or backup” to set up a new job (a profile).
- Advanced mode: In the profile overview, click the first button in the toolbar (Create new profile). Name the profile so that it describes the purpose of the synchronization, e.g. “Network File Sync Office”.
- Set source paths for synchronization
In Syncovery, each profile consists of two sides: the left side and the right side. For example, you can do the following:
- Left side: Select the folder on your computer that you want to synchronize over the network.
- Right side: Enter the path of the network drive or remote folder where the synchronization should take place.
It is important that both sides correspond to each other. For example:
left: C:\Users\Marie\Documents\Fitness
right: \\LAPTOP\Documents\Fitness
So to copy the Fitness folder to the Documents folder on the laptop, both paths must end with Fitness. If Fitness were missing from the second path, Syncovery would not create the folder and instead copy the files from Fitness directly into the Documents folder on the right. If the folder does not yet exist, you can simply add \Fitness to the path yourself (by typing or copying the folder name and the backslash).
- Copy direction, subfolder selection, sync mode
Decide whether the files are copied in one direction only (e.g. left to right) or in both directions.
Leave the subfolder selection at “all” or select folders.
Decide on one of the sync modes Standard, Exact mirroring, or SmartTracking. The sync modes are explained in the dialog window.
- Appointment settings / Schedule
To automate synchronization, you need to create a schedule. To do this, select the frequency and times at which the synchronization should take place, for example hourly, daily or in real time. You can also do this later, because before automating, you should first test the profile with a manual, attended start.
- Use advanced options
Syncovery offers a wide range of additional features that you can customize as needed. These include filters to synchronize only certain file types or the ability to intervene manually in the event of file conflicts (SmartTracking).
- Start synchronization
Once everything is configured, start the profile in Attended mode. Syncovery will first read the folders and display the differences in the sync preview. Here you can see which files and folders Syncovery wants to copy in order to match the network path with the local folder. If the suggested copy actions are correct, you can start the copy process with the start button. If there are too many files or no files at all to copy, you need to check your settings and, if necessary, the folders themselves.
Tips for optimizing network file synchronization
When synchronizing over a network, there are a few points you should keep in mind to make the process smooth and efficient.
- Check network connections: A stable connection is important for reliable and complete synchronization. Make sure that your network is available at all times.
- Use real-time synchronization effectively: Real-time synchronization is recommended for files that are updated frequently. For content that is edited less frequently, a scheduled synchronization is often sufficient.
- Set up backups: Protect your files from loss. With a regular backup, you create backup copies on different media or in the cloud.
Typical areas of application for network file synchronization
Network file synchronization is used in many areas, including the following sectors:
- Corporate networks: Departments that work together digitally access the same documents and benefit from immediate changes when real-time synchronization is activated.
- Remote work: Employees who work from home or externally can always keep their files up to date.
- Server synchronization: Data can be synchronized between local servers and network drives to enable access from multiple locations.
Synchronize folders over the network – with Syncovery
Use Syncovery to automate the Synchronize folders effortlessly over a network and customize the settings individually. Whether real-time synchronization, scheduled backups or managing large amounts of data – Syncovery offers a flexible and reliable solution. The user-friendly interface and powerful functions make setting up and using the software easy. Test our backup software for 30 days free of charge and see for yourself the advantages of a professional synchronization tool.