Temporarily remove sync folder

Hey folks,

I’m using syncthing to sync multiple folders between laptop and an rpi. What is the most fool proof process to temporarily remove all files from the laptop, and then resync at a later date.

I obviously can’t pause sync, delete laptop files and resync. I guess I could do that with folder types but I’d have to reconfigure each one after.

is there anything else I’m missing?

Changing the folder types to Receive Only is probably the best idea. How many folders are we talking about? If it’s a massive number, then you could change them all at once by editing the config.xml file directly. This is assuming that you’re somewhat comfortable with computers and know what you’re doing.

As always, it’s recommended to have a full backup of your data before proceeding with any experimentation.

Thanks.

It’s manageable for sure, maybe a dozen. It just feels slightly error prone. The process would be

  1. mark the laptop folders to Receive Only in syncthing
  2. pause syncthing
  3. delete folders

Then when I want the files back, resume sync and then disable Receive Only

Right? Thanks

I would leave the folder markers (.stfolder) on the disk, as otherwise you will have to recreate them manually after unpausing the folders. Once unpaused, you will see a “Revert Local Changes” button for each folder which you need to press in order to make Syncthing re-download the files.

The biggest risk is right here. As mentioned you’ll have to revert local changes on each folder BEFORE switching the folder type back to send/receive. I would suggest making sure all the files have been restored. Properly before switching back to send/receive.

If you screw this part up all these files will quickly be deleted on all your other devices.

The identified process is safe. Just be careful and make sure all the files have been copied back before switching out of “receive only”