file synchronization Archives

AppWizard

December 8, 2025

Syncthing Android App Ends in 2024: Community Forks Tackle Google Hurdles

Syncthing, an open-source file synchronization tool, faced discontinuation of its official Android app in late 2024 due to Google's strict Play Store policies and lack of maintenance. In response, the community developed the Syncthing-Fork as an alternative, which integrates the core Syncthing engine and offers enhancements for Android users. The fork's development is now maintained under the researchxxl/syncthing-android repository on GitHub, addressing issues like file synchronization problems caused by Android's battery optimization features. Users have reported sync failures during device sleep, prompting discussions on workarounds. The fork has received positive feedback for its regular updates and compatibility with other tools, although challenges remain, such as intermittent issues with larger file transfers. Community involvement has been crucial for ongoing development, with contributors exploring new features and improvements. The fork is also available on F-Droid, providing an open-source distribution option.

Winsage

November 27, 2025

Microsoft Goes Wild for Black Friday, Windows 11 Pro Drops 94% Like They Forgot the Price Tag

A Windows 11 Pro license, typically priced around 0, is currently available for just under through StackSocial, representing a 94% discount. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Universal Search for easy access to apps and documents, Virtual Desktops for customized workspace organization, keyboard shortcuts for enhanced workflow efficiency, and OneDrive integration for file synchronization across devices. The promotion is time-limited and offers an affordable upgrade option for users transitioning from older versions of Windows or setting up new PCs.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

Google rolls out Drive updates to block huge ransomware attacks

Ransomware attacks pose significant threats to various sectors, causing financial damage and operational disruptions. Google has enhanced its Google Drive platform with AI-powered detection capabilities to combat these attacks. While Google Workspace files like Docs and Sheets are protected, other formats such as PDFs and Microsoft Office documents remain vulnerable. Google Drive for desktop now uses AI to identify suspicious encryption activities, halting file synchronization to prevent ransomware spread. Users can restore data to a secure state without external recovery tools, and administrators receive alerts about suspicious activities. This development aims to help organizations avoid ransomware threats and supports users of various productivity suites.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

Microsoft acknowledges that OneDrive sync can reduce system speed

Microsoft has updated its guidance on improving PC performance for Windows 10 and 11 users, highlighting built-in features that may slow down systems. Key recommendations include disabling OneDrive file synchronization and Windows visual effects. OneDrive's synchronization can consume CPU and bandwidth resources, and pausing it can enhance performance, especially on slower devices. Users can pause syncing by selecting OneDrive on the taskbar, navigating to Help & Settings, and choosing to pause syncing. Visual effects in Windows 11, such as transparency and animations, can also degrade performance on slower systems. Users are advised to disable these effects by adjusting settings in the “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows” menu. Other optimization tips include keeping Windows updated, scanning for malware, removing unnecessary startup applications, and managing page files.

AppWizard

October 2, 2025

These are the 7 open-source apps I recommend to everyone starting with self-hosting

Self-hosting is gaining popularity, prompting individuals to consider what services they want to self-host. Key applications for beginners include: - Portainer: A web dashboard that simplifies Docker management, allowing users to pull images, set up containers, and manage networks through a graphical interface. - Nextcloud: A self-hosted file synchronization solution that offers a productivity suite with features like calendars and collaborative document editing. - Home Assistant: A platform that consolidates smart devices for automation and control, enabling users to create customized smart home experiences. - Jellyfin: An open-source media server that allows users to organize and stream their own media libraries without subscription fees or ads. - Navidrome: A music server for streaming personal music collections with features like playlists and album art support. - Paperless-NGX: An application that digitizes and organizes documents using optical character recognition for easy management of paperwork. - Immich: A photo management tool that helps users organize and search their photo libraries based on metadata. - Dockpeek: A dashboard that lists all running Docker containers, simplifying access to services and enhancing user experience. A gradual approach is recommended for newcomers, focusing on specific needs to avoid decision fatigue while exploring various self-hosting options.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Google backs down after locking out Nextcloud Files app

Google has reinstated the permissions previously revoked from Nextcloud's Files app for Android, allowing the app to restore its full file syncing capabilities. Andy Schertzinger, Director of Engineering at Nextcloud, confirmed this decision, which follows a period of challenges after Google revoked the app's "All files access" permission in late 2024. This permission is crucial for file synchronization applications. Nextcloud had faced difficulties in the Play Store due to this revocation, and despite attempts to communicate with Google, there was no response until the recent restoration of permissions.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Nextcloud cries foul over Google Play Store app rejection

Nextcloud, a European software vendor, has raised concerns about Google's treatment of its Android Files application, which has over 800,000 users. The issue centers on the "All files access" permission, which was revoked by the Play Store in 2024, impairing the app's functionality. Nextcloud argues that alternatives like the Storage Access Framework (SAF) and MediaStore API are inadequate for their needs. The app has been able to read and write all file types since its launch in 2016 without security concerns from Google until the recent revocation. Nextcloud claims that Google's policies are stifling competition and that they have faced bureaucratic inefficiencies in addressing their complaints. Despite having a fully functional version on F-Droid, the Google Play version is restricted. Nextcloud has previously lodged a complaint with the EU regarding Microsoft's anti-competitive behavior, and they express frustration over the lack of action taken. They believe larger tech companies are trying to suppress smaller competitors.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Do these five important things after installing Windows 11

- After setting up Windows 11, it is recommended to back up your BitLocker key to prevent access issues, as drives are encrypted by default without user notification. - To back up the BitLocker key, sign in to your Microsoft Account, navigate to the "Devices" tab, and manage recovery keys. - Context menus in Windows 11 can be cleaned up by uninstalling unnecessary applications or modifying the system registry to remove unwanted entries. - The "End Task" feature can be enabled by navigating to Settings > System > For developers and toggling on the feature. - To reduce notifications and ads, users can disable various settings in the Personalization and Privacy & Security sections of the Settings app. - OneDrive auto-backup is enabled by default, and users can disable it by accessing OneDrive settings and turning off backup options.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

These 7 WSL programs changed how I use Windows

Windows users previously faced challenges using Linux tools via virtual machines until the introduction of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which was further improved with WSL2. WSL2 integrates a lightweight virtual machine into Windows, allowing users to run Linux applications seamlessly. Runtipi and CasaOS can be easily set up on WSL2 to host self-service applications without complex configurations. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) offers a WSL extension that enables code execution directly in Linux distributions from Windows, enhancing the coding experience. Gigolo is a frontend for managing network shares, which can also be integrated into Windows 11 through WSL2. Ansible can automate the provisioning of virtual machines and containers on WSL2, making it easier for users engaged in DIY projects. Rsync can be installed via WSL2 for efficient file synchronization and backups on Windows. Podman Desktop allows Windows users to explore container runtimes using WSL2, providing a GUI for managing containers. Lastly, WSL2 enables users to access the Linux terminal and run various Linux distributions directly within Windows 11.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

For the Price of a Good Burger, You Can Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro and Unlock Microsoft’s Copilot AI

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, a 92% discount from the standard price of approximately 9. It features a refreshed user interface for multitasking, enhanced security, a Universal Search tool on the taskbar, the ability to create multiple custom desktops, and integration with OneDrive for file synchronization across devices. It also includes productivity shortcuts like Win + V for clipboard history and the Copilot AI tool to streamline tasks.