Syncthing Open Source Continuous File Synchronization

Here is how to quickly set up the Syncthing: continuous file synchronization service on a FreeBSD host.

What is Syncthing?

As described on Syncthing website:

Syncthing is a continuous file synchronization program. It synchronizes files between two or more computers. We strive to fulfill the goals below. The goals are listed in order of importance, the most important one being the first. This is the summary version of the goal list - for more commentary, see the full Goals document.

Syncthing should be:

1. Safe From Data Loss

   Protecting the user's data is paramount. We take every reasonable precaution to avoid corrupting the user's files.

2. Secure Against Attackers

   Again, protecting the user's data is paramount. Regardless of our other goals we must never allow the user's data to be susceptible to eavesdropping or modification by unauthorized parties.

3. Easy to Use

   Syncthing should be approachable, understandable and inclusive.

4. Automatic

   User interaction should be required only when absolutely necessary.

5. Universally Available

   Syncthing should run on every common computer. We are mindful that the latest technology is not always available to any given individual.

6. For Individuals

   Syncthing is primarily about empowering the individual user with safe, secure and easy to use file synchronization.

7. Everything Else

   There are many things we care about that don't make it on to the list. It is fine to optimize for these values, as long as they are not in conflict with the stated goals above.

Installation on a FreeBSD Host

As root:

pkg inst syncthing

echo 'syncthing_enable = "YES"' >> /etc/rc.conf

/usr/local/etc/rc.d/syncthing start

See below how to access the bundled Web UI.

Important! The service requires the following ports to be opened and NATed on all hosts:

tcp_services = "{ssh, 22000, 8384}"

Getting Started

Remove default folder

Create a folder having the same ID on two hosts

Add the other host on each one with its ID.

Share the folder, restart the service.

Documentation

Please see the Syncthing documentation site.

All code is licensed under the MPLv2 License.