Sync makes it easy to back up your files while staying in control of how much storage each device uses. This guide covers the basics of Vault, CloudFiles, and Automatic Camera Uploads, and the best use cases for when to use each feature.
Vault Overview
Vault is a cloud-only storage space in Sync for files you want to keep online, but don’t need synced to every device. Think of Vault as your “online archive” inside Sync: you can upload files to Vault, access them from the web panel (and supported apps), and download them when needed, but they don’t automatically live on every device like files in your Sync folder.
When you should use Vault
Use Vault when you want to keep files safely stored in Sync without syncing them to every device. It’s ideal for long-term storage, backups, and files you only need to access occasionally.
Common use cases:
Backing up files from an external drive
Upload older projects or large folders so they’re protected even when the drive isn’t plugged in.Storing large files you don’t want on your laptop
Like videos or big photo folders that take up lots of space.Keeping “just in case” files
Like tax documents, old school files, backups, or finished projects.Saving important records
Like contracts, receipts, or exports, you only need once in a while.
How the Vault works
- Files uploaded to Vault are stored in the cloud and do not sync to your computer automatically.
- You can still download Vault files anytime when you need them.
For a comprehensive overview of Vault, see What is the Sync Vault?
CloudFiles Overview
Sync CloudFiles is a file-on-demand feature that lets you see your files right from your computer, without taking up any space.
When you should use CloudFiles
Use CloudFiles when you want your files to stay in your Sync folder and remain accessible across all your devices, but you don’t want everything stored locally. Your folder structure stays visible, and you download files only when you need them.
Common use cases:
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Free up disk space without deleting files.
Example: large folders you rarely open, but want to keep available. -
Work across multiple devices
CloudFiles still syncs your file/folder structure to other devices, so you can access the same content anywhere, downloading only what you need on each device. -
Keep files in your Sync folder structure for organization
Example: client folders remain visible, even if older clients are cloud-only. -
Download on demand
You can download files only when you need them, rather than syncing everything and using more device space.
How CloudFiles works
- Items marked cloud-only remain in Sync and appear in your Sync folder, but don’t take up the same amount of local storage.
- When you open a cloud-only file, Sync can download it on demand (depending on your device/app settings).
- You can switch files back to local if you know you’ll need offline access.
For a comprehensive overview of CloudFiles, see How to use Sync CloudFiles
Automatic Camera Uploads Overview
Automatic Camera Uploads backs up photos and videos from your phone to Sync. It’s designed to protect your memories and media by automatically copying new photos to your Sync account without having to manually upload them.
When you should use Automatic Camera Uploads
Use Automatic Camera Uploads when you want your phone’s photos and videos backed up to Sync automatically. It’s an easy set-it-and-forget-it way to protect your memories and keep them accessible across devices.
Common use cases:
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Automatic backup for peace of mind
If your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged, your photos are already backed up. -
Free up space on your phone over time
Once backed up, you can manage your phone storage more confidently (while keeping originals safe in Sync). -
Easy access across devices
Photos uploaded from your phone can be accessed from the web panel or your other devices. -
Capture-to-cloud workflows
Useful for creators and teams who take photos/video on mobile and then work from a desktop later.
How Automatic Camera Uploads works
- Once enabled, Sync uploads photos/videos from your device camera roll to a designated location in your Sync account.
- Uploads typically happen in the background based on your app permissions and device settings (for example, Wi-Fi vs cellular preferences).
For a comprehensive overview of Automatic Camera Uploads, see Automatic camera uploads