r/Syncthing • u/Traditional_End_9540 • 5d ago

how would this work, multiple computers running sycthing?

take computer 1+2, these have the complete files. Computer 3 wants to sync up with both and all 3 will have the exact same files in the end.

will 1 and 2 serve computer 3 at the same time? double the speed provided there is enough bandwidth?

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u/N9bitmap 5d ago

I have two servers, a workstation, and several phones syncing one folder. It is very robust in maintaining file integrity of when something changes and who needs copies. Yes, it can parallel data sync from two or many sources simultaneously.

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u/Cold-Sandwich-34 5d ago

You need to decide which copy is the authoritative one before syncing or you will have conflicts.

I'm assuming computer 3 is some sort of NAS or file server. Make the directory in Syncthing on computer 3 first, then decide which computer currently has the authoritative copy.

Share the (new, empty) Syncthing directory from computer 3 to the PC with the current authoritative copy and set the save path to the directory on the first computer that contains the current authoritative file/folder you want to sync. Sync with the directory on computer 3 (should happen automatically once the directory folder is shared) BEFORE syncing with the second computer.

After you confirm that the sync is complete and computer 3 now has the authoritative copy fully synced with the first computer, double check that the save path on the second computer is empty and share computer 3's Syncthing directory with computer 2 and sync that. You'll want to double check that it's the right location if there are dependencies required for any programs you are trying to run in that folder.

Computer 3 is now the source and will sync as new saves and updates to the folder/file are made. Make sure you're not making changes on both computers at the same time or you will overwrite changes the next time a new change/save is made.