# ChatGPT Answer Syncthing is a free, open-source peer-to-peer file synchronization application available for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Solaris, Darwin and BSD. It can sync files between devices on a local network or over the internet. Syncthing replaces proprietary sync and cloud services with something open, trustworthy and decentralized. The application is designed to protect your privacy since your data is not stored in a central location or in the cloud. Instead, it is directly synced between the devices you choose. Moreover, all communication is secured using TLS encryption. Syncthing features include real-time file synchronization, versioning (keeping old versions of files), conflict resolution strategies (what to do if a file changes on both sides at the same time), ignoring certain files or folders by specifying patterns and more. The project was started by [[Jakob Borg]] in 2013 and has grown significantly since then with contributions from many other developers. # Bard Answer Syncthing is an open-source, continuous file synchronization program that allows you to keep your files consistent across multiple devices. Here's a breakdown of its key features and benefits: **What it does:** - **Synchronizes files between devices:** Automatically keeps your files identical on computers, phones, tablets, and NAS drives, regardless of their location. - **Real-time updates:** Changes made on one device are reflected on all connected devices almost instantly. - **Multiple platforms:** Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, FreeBSD, and more. - **Secure and private:** Uses TLS encryption for secure communication between devices, and your data never leaves your devices unless you choose to share it. - **Decentralized:** No central server involved; devices connect directly to each other, giving you complete control over your data. - **Flexible configuration:** Choose which folders to sync, set conflict resolution rules, and more. - **Lightweight and efficient:** Uses minimal resources and bandwidth, suitable for local and remote syncing. **Benefits of using Syncthing:** - **Always have the latest version of your files:** No more worrying about losing work or having different versions on different devices. - **Easy access from any device:** Access your files from any device connected to Syncthing, even offline (with mobile app). - **Peace of mind:** Back up your important files automatically and securely without relying on third-party services. - **Privacy and control:** You decide what gets synced and where, maintaining complete control over your data. - **Cost-effective:** Free and open-source alternative to paid cloud storage solutions. **Things to consider:** - Requires some technical setup, although the web interface is user-friendly. - Not as feature-rich as some paid cloud storage options, but perfect for basic syncing needs. - Requires devices to be online and connected to the same network for initial setup and ongoing syncing. ## Is it safe to only use Syncthing for data backup? Whether Syncthing is safe as your **primary data backup solution** depends on several factors and the specific risks you're trying to mitigate. Here's a breakdown of its pros and cons: **Pros:** - **Real-time synchronization:** Keeps your data constantly mirrored across devices, minimizing data loss risk from accidental deletion or device failure. - **Easy setup and maintenance:** User-friendly interface and open-source nature make it readily accessible. - **Encryption:** Protects data in transit and at rest with optional encryption. - **Offline access:** Once files are locally synced, you can access them even without an internet connection. **Cons:** - **Not true backup:** Syncthing replicates data across devices, but doesn't protect against data loss due to ransomware, hardware failure, or accidental deletion on all devices simultaneously. - **Version control limited:** Offers basic versioning that may not be sufficient for recovering specific historical versions of files. - **Security concerns:** Encryption is optional, and security practices vary depending on user configuration. - **Limited disaster recovery:** No offsite backup location to recover from catastrophic events like fire or natural disasters. **Overall, Syncthing is a valuable tool for synchronizing data, but it shouldn't be your sole backup solution.** It's crucial to implement a **layered backup strategy** that combines different methods to address various risks. Consider these options: - **Cloud storage backup:** Offers offsite protection against local disasters. - **Local backup to external drives:** Provides an easily accessible secondary copy. - **Version control systems:** Allow for recovering specific versions of files. The most suitable approach depends on your specific needs and risk tolerance. Consider factors like: - **Data sensitivity:** Highly sensitive data might require stronger security measures. - **Frequency of data change:** How often does your data update? - **Acceptable downtime:** How much data loss can you tolerate in case of an incident? Remember, the goal is to create a comprehensive backup strategy that minimizes data loss risks and ensures easy recovery in case of failures. Consult documentation and experts to create a solution tailored to your unique needs. # Conclusion **Overall, Syncthing is a powerful and versatile tool for keeping your files in sync across devices. It's a great choice for users who value privacy, control, and secure data management.** # References ```dataview Table title as Title, authors as Authors where contains(subject, "Syncthing" ) sort modified desc, authors, title ```