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Lsyncd, a backup and sync application, monitors local directory trees using inotify or fsevents. It accumulates and consolidates events before synchronizing, commonly using rsync. However, Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and Android Tablet have more than 50 lsyncd alternatives. Syncthing, a free, open-source alternative, is well-regarded. Like lsyncd, FreeFileSync, rsync, SyncBack, and Déjà Dup provide robust features.
In conclusion, lsyncd uses rsync to watch local directories for changes and update target locations quickly. However, Syncthing, FreeFileSync, rsync, SyncBack, and Déjà Dup are available for varied systems and preferences, making real-time file synchronization and backup efficient and trustworthy.
Why Look for Alternatives?
Even though lsyncd works well and is stable, it may not meet everyone’s needs. Some users may look for options because of how hard it is to set up, how few platforms it works on, or because they want more features. By looking into different solutions, you can find a wider range of options that fit different needs and tastes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing lsyncd Alternatives
Before looking at the options, think about the following to make sure the one you choose meets your needs:
- Ease of Use: Look for options that have simple setup and interfaces that are easy to use.
- Real-time Syncing: Check to see if the option, like lsyncd, can synchronize files in real time.
- Platform Support: Make sure the alternative works on the platforms and running systems you need.
Best lsyncd Alternatives
The open-source Live Syncing Daemon (lsyncd) synchronizes files and directories between various systems. It real-time propagates directory changes to target destinations. lsyncd is a popular real-time file synchronizer, although there are various reasons to consider alternatives.
Syncthing
Features:
Syncthing is a famous open-source tool for keeping files in sync. It works smoothly on Windows, macOS, Linux, and other platforms. It uses peer-to-peer technology so that devices can share files safely and in real time. With its decentralized design, Syncthing protects the safety of your data and gets rid of the need for a central server.
The Good
- User-friendly interface
- Robust security measures
- Active community support
The Bad
- May consume significant system resources during large sync operations
GoodSync
Features:
GoodSync is backup and syncing software that works with both Windows and macOS. It has a lot of features. It lets you sync in real time or at a set time, so your files are always up to date on all of your devices. GoodSync offers different ways to sync, such as bi-directional and one-way sync, so that users can make the process fit their needs.
The Good
- Intuitive user interface
- Extensive cloud service integrations
- File versioning and backup capabilities
- Fast and efficient synchronization
The Bad
- Free version has limited features
FreeFileSync
Features:
FreeFileSync is a free and open-source tool for Windows, macOS, and Linux that can be used to keep files in sync. It has an easy-to-use design that makes it good for people with different levels of experience. Both local and network-based syncing are supported by FreeFileSync, which makes sure that your files are copied correctly and quickly.
The Good
- Free to use without any ads or malware
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
- Fast and reliable syncing process
The Bad
- Advanced features may be missing compared to paid alternatives
rsync
Features:
rsync is a tool for Unix-based computers that lets you sync files using the command line. Even though it doesn’t have a visible user interface, rsync is very useful and widely used because of how fast and flexible it is. It uses the delta-transfer method, which only syncs the parts of files that have changed. This keeps the amount of data transfer overhead to a minimum.
The Good
- Fast and lightweight
- Low resource usage
- Secure file transfer over SSH
- Works well for large datasets
The Bad
- Limited features compared to GUI-based alternatives
SyncBack
Features:
SyncBack is a backup and syncing program for Windows that can do a lot. It has different ways to sync, such as in real time, on a plan, or by hand. SyncBack works with network backups, cloud storage, and FTP/SFTP connections. This gives users a lot of options for where to store their copies.
The Good
- User-friendly interface
- Multiple backup options
- Extensive support for various backup destinations
- Customizable and flexible sync rules
The Bad
- Limited support for macOS and Linux (primarily designed for Windows)
Questions and Answers
All of the options listed, like Syncthing, GoodSync, FreeFileSync, and SyncBack, can sync in real time. But rsync works in a more standard way and doesn’t have built-in support for syncing in real time.
Both Syncthing and FreeFileSync are free to use and use open-source software. GoodSync and SyncBack both have free versions with restricted features, but if you want to use their more advanced features, you may have to pay for a license.
Yes, Syncthing, GoodSync, and SyncBack all have ways to encrypt files so that file sharing is safe. Since rsync is a command-line tool, it uses SSH to send files securely over the Internet.