How to keep a Linux folder synchronized with Sync using Rclone Bisync

Rclone Bisync can synchronize changes in both directions between a local Linux folder and Sync.

Unlike rclone sync, which has one source and one destination, Bisync detects changes on both sides.

Note: Rclone considers Bisync an advanced command and recommends reviewing changes carefully because incorrect configuration can result in file deletion or conflicts.

Before you begin, you'll need:

Installation

  1. Install and start the Sync WebDAV server. Follow these step-by-step instructions.
  2. Install Rclone: sudo apt install rclone
    (or install the latest version from the Rclone website: curl https://rclone.org/install.sh | sudo bash)

Configure Rclone

  1. Run: rclone config create sync-webdav webdav url=http://localhost:4918 vendor=other
  2. Create the local folder you want to synchronize: mkdir -p ~/Sync

Initial synchronization

The first Bisync run requires --resync.

Start with a dry run:

  • rclone bisync ~/Sync sync-webdav:/ --resync --dry-run -v

Review the changes carefully. When you're satisfied, run:

  • rclone bisync ~/Sync sync-webdav:/ --resync

Future synchronization

For normal subsequent runs, do not use --resync. Instead, run:

  • rclone bisync ~/Sync sync-webdav:/

Changes made locally are copied to Sync, and changes detected in Sync are copied locally.

Important

Bisync is not a continuously running desktop sync client. It synchronizes whenever the command runs.

You can run it manually or schedule it periodically.

Only use --resync for the initial run or when Rclone specifically requires a resync. Using it for every run can cause deleted files to reappear.

 

 

 

Was this article helpful?
0 out of 0 found this helpful