Enduradata explains: what is file synchronization?

Whether you’re working with your Android device on the fly, collaborating with other team members around the world, or all in one location, it is not so much of a Geekly thing as it is a necessity to know about file synchronization.

Are you tired of constantly emailing files to your team to ensure everyone has the latest version? Have you ever lost important documents due to a hard drive crash or accidentally deleted a file? As EnduraData explains – these problems can be solved with file synchronization!

What is File synchronization? It’s a powerful method of keeping your files updated and stored in multiple locations. This method is crucial for remote teams who need access to the same files in real time. File syncing software, such as Dropbox, is commonly used for backup and mobile file access. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of file synchronization and their benefits, so you can keep your team organized and efficient.

Types of File Synchronization

Synchronization can be “one-way” or “two-way.” or even “multi-way”.

1. Two-Way synchronization (bi-directional synchronization)

It is a type of synchronization in which files are copied in both directions to reconcile changes as they occur. If a file in Location A is newer, it will be copied to Location B. If a file in Location B is newer, it will be copied to Location A. Similarly, deleting a file from Location A deletes it from Location B, and vice versa.

2. One-Way synchronization (file backup/mirroring/file replication)

The synchronization process only transfers files in one direction. Files are pushed from source to target in only one direction. For example, if a file in Location A (source) is more recent, it will be copied to Location B. (target). Similarly, deleting a file from Location A causes it to be deleted from Location B. On the other hand, a file deleted in Location B is restored using the file in Location A.

How does file synchronization work, and how to implement it?

Your needs will dictate how you implement file synchronization. You can also use a variety of file-syncing techniques. These can include, for example, using a hosted system, developing your sync system, or a third-party tool.

The best file-syncing solutions simplify copying and backing your files across multiple devices, whether at work, at home or on the go. In addition to storing and syncing data, most syncing solutions allow you to manage your saved data, user access and permissions. These are good for file sharing and collaboration with stored files.

Benefits of File Synchronization

1. Encourages collaboration

Having consistent data sets across multiple locations fosters healthy collaboration when working with others. Everyone will have the same information about the project under consideration. When you make changes to your data source, the changes are reflected in the applications of the other team members.

2. Prevents data Loss

Data synchronization prevents data loss by providing updated multiple data sets in different locations. If you lose data in one application, don’t worry because you have the same data in several other places.

3. Improve data accessibility

Because data synchronization ensures that your data in different locations is accurate, you can use the most convenient and available Location at any given time. You can access your data locally if your network fails or goes down.

4. Controlling secure access

You must be aware of who has access to your data so that they do not alter or compromise it in any way. File synchronization allows you to make specific data sets available to network users in a separate application without granting them full network access. Another aspect that must be mentioned is the compliance with laws such as HIPPA or other federal requirements. Does the solution support installation on premise, the cloud or both? Does the solution have safeguards for data leaks? Does data leave the customer’s site? If so the consequences of a data leak or breach can be very costly and may violate certain laws. One question to always ask, what is the value of the data, its secrets and do you trust all system administrators that have access to the data on the remote sites?

5. Automating massive data transfers

Some file synchronization vendors more than others automate file sync more than others. It is critical that attention be paid to automation of the large file transfers and the amount of data to be transferred. Some solutions are for small businesses or home users but are not for the enterprise.

Final Thoughts

A significant portion of our work in the digital space revolves around files. You can use file synchronization to keep all of your data sets up to date. Furthermore, by implementing a single file synchronization software across multiple applications, you can improve the security of your data assets. You will save valuable resources, such as time, in the long run and boost efficiency of your business operations. But beware that some solutions are for home users but do not respond to the needs of the enterprise or government agencies. We also suggest you read more here about secure data transfers.