Syncthing Made EASY

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing and setting up Syncthing, a powerful open-source file syncing tool. You'll learn how to install Syncthing on various operating systems, pair your devices, share files, set up remote access, and manage file versioning. By the end, you’ll be equipped to use Syncthing effectively across your devices.

Step 1: Understanding Peer-to-Peer Syncing

• Syncthing operates on a peer-to-peer model, allowing devices to sync files directly without a central server.
• This means your data remains private, as it is not stored on third-party servers.

Step 2: Installing on MacOS

1. Download the latest Syncthing release from the official website.
2. Open the downloaded file and drag the Syncthing application to your Applications folder.
3. Launch Syncthing from your Applications.
4. To allow Syncthing to run at startup, you can add it to your login items in System Preferences.

Step 3: Installing on Linux

1. Open a terminal window.
2. Add the Syncthing repository by entering:

   sudo add-apt-repository ppa:syncthing/stable
   

3. Update your package list:

   sudo apt-get update
   

4. Install Syncthing:

   sudo apt-get install syncthing
   

5. Start Syncthing by typing syncthing in the terminal.

Step 4: Installing on Windows

1. Download the Windows installer from the official website.
2. Run the installer and follow the prompts.
3. To set Syncthing to run on startup, use the instructions found here.

Step 5: Basic Setup

1. Open the Syncthing interface in your web browser at http://localhost:8384.
2. Take note of your device ID, which is needed for pairing devices.
3. Configure device settings and add folders you want to sync.

Step 6: Testing File Sync

1. Create a file in one of the synced folders on your device.
2. Check the other device to ensure the file appears there, confirming successful syncing.

Step 7: Adding a Third Machine

1. Obtain the device ID of the third machine.
2. On the first device, go to the "Add Device" section.
3. Enter the device ID and configure sharing options.
4. Repeat the process on the third machine to complete the pairing.

Step 8: Setting Up File Versioning

1. In the folder settings, look for the versioning option.
2. Select a versioning strategy (e.g., simple file versioning or a more advanced approach).
3. Configure the retention policy for how long older versions should be kept.

Step 9: Ignoring Files

1. In the folder settings, locate the "Ignore Patterns" section.
2. Specify any files or folders you want to exclude from syncing using patterns (e.g., *.tmp for temporary files).

Step 10: Adding Remote Machines

1. Obtain the device ID of the remote machine.
2. On your local Syncthing interface, click on "Add Remote Device."
3. Enter the device ID and configure access permissions.

Step 11: Port Forwarding and Relaying

1. If you want to access Syncthing from outside your local network, set up port forwarding on your router:
   • Forward port 22000 for TCP traffic.
   • Ensure the firewall permits this port.
2. Alternatively, enable relaying in Syncthing settings for easier setup.

Step 12: Understanding Topology

• Syncthing allows you to choose how devices connect to each other:
  • Direct connection for quick syncs.
  • Relay when direct connections are not possible.
• Adjust these settings based on your network configuration.

Step 13: Integrating with iOS

1. Download the Syncthing app from the App Store.
2. Open the app and connect it to your existing Syncthing setup using the device ID.
3. Configure folder syncing as needed.

Conclusion

You now have a comprehensive understanding of how to install and configure Syncthing across various platforms. By following these steps, you can pair devices, share files, and manage your data efficiently and securely. For further information, consider exploring advanced configurations or troubleshooting tips in Syncthing's documentation.