Syncing mac computers

Posted in: darrelrussell.com edit
06 Jan 2009
  • I have two macs on two different floors of an appartment building. Is there any program that will allow me to sync chosen folders through the internet (not a network)? I know of FolderShare for windows, is there something similar that will work with macs?


  • Hello Betz, Could you provide a little more information about your set up? - which version of MacOS you are using (both systems) - do you have any firewalls between the two systems - do you have a common username on both systems - do you want changes to be "one way" or "bi directional"? For example, if machine A updates a file, it will be moved to B, but not the other direction. There are a few different methods that can be used but which one will depend on how you expect to use the connection. --Maniac


  • The powerbookG4 has Mac OS 10.2.8. The iMac is brand new and has the latest version of OS X. There isn't a firewall between the systems. Both systems have the same username, but they aren't set up such that you have to login to use the machines. I would like that the changes be bi-directional. Thanks!


  • Hello Betz, Let me give you a few alternatives that somewhat span the range in ease of use and cost. [1] A commercial product such as http://www.academicsuperstore.com/market/marketdisp.html?PartNo=711327 You Synchronize - provides a nice user interface, has several options and the price is not too high ($35). [2] A free product w/ GUI such as http://archive.macosxlabs.org:16080/rsyncx/intro.html which describes a GUI add on to rsync. Includes instructions as well as a web cast describing it. Appears to be free. [3] A stock system should include rsync From a terminal window, entering something like man rsync will provide some basic instruction. This is the program that runs underneath rsyncx (#2 above). Depending on your skill with Unix commands, you can set this up to run periodically if that is desired. For both #2 and #3, see the notes about running securely using ssh. You may also have to turn on the sharing protocols (default to off) and allow the firewall to pass the protocols through. Use System Preferences -> Sharing to make those changes. Enable ssh through the item titled "Remote Login". This should get you started on synchronizing files between the two systems. Make a clarification request if you need further information. --Maniac







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