How to Transfer Files with Syncthing-Fork (Step-by-Step)

Syncthing-Fork Mobile Laptop and PC

What is Syncthing-Fork?

Syncthing-Fork automatically synchronizes files between devices over your local network or the internet.

Features

• ✅ Free & Open Source
• ✅ No USB Cable Required
• ✅ No Cloud Storage Needed
• ✅ Secure End-to-End Encryption
• ✅ Fast Wi-Fi File Transfer
• ✅ Windows, Linux, macOS & Android Support

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Requirements

• Laptop & Desktop connected to the same Wi-Fi network (recommended for fast local transfers)
• Syncthing installed on both devices
• Firewall permission allowed

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Step 1: Install Syncthing

Windows

Download and install Syncthing on both computers.

Android

Install Syncthing-Fork from the Google Play Store or F-Droid.

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Step 2: Launch Syncthing

Open Syncthing on both devices.

A web interface opens, usually at:

http://127.0.0.1:8384

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Step 3: Find the Device ID

On each device:

1. Click Actions.
2. Select Show ID.
3. Copy the Device ID.

Example:

ABCDEF1-GHIJKL2-MNOPQR3-STUVWX4-1234567

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Step 4: Add the Second Device

On Laptop:

1. Click Add Remote Device
2. Paste the Desktop Device ID
3. Give it a name such as:

Office Desktop

Click Save.

Repeat the same process on the Desktop using the Laptop's Device ID.

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Step 5: Share a Folder

Click

Add Folder

Choose a folder such as:

D:\Projects

Tick the Desktop device under Sharing.

Click Save.

The Desktop will receive a notification asking to accept the shared folder.

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Step 6: Start Synchronization

Once accepted, Syncthing begins transferring files automatically.

You'll see:

• Progress bar
• File count
• Transfer speed
• Sync status

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Step 7: Automatic Updates

Whenever you:

• Copy a file
• Edit a document
• Delete a file

Syncthing automatically synchronizes the changes to the other device.

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Example

Laptop

D:\Photos

⬇ Automatically Syncs ⬇

Desktop

D:\Photos

No manual copying required.

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Advantages

• Extremely fast on local Wi-Fi
• No internet required for devices on the same network
• No file size limits
• No subscriptions
• Strong encryption
• Automatic synchronization

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Tips

• Keep both devices powered on during synchronization.
• Allow Syncthing through the Windows Firewall if prompted.
• Use a dedicated folder for shared files to keep synchronization organized.

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