Syncing of folders on two computers via iCloud

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Level 1

15 points

Syncing of folders on two computers via iCloud

I need to keep a folder (Other than Documents) synced on my Apple Desktop and MacBook via iCloud so that they always remain synced just like Apple Contacts or Notes. I want them physically synched real time on desktop and MacBook and accessible in iCloud as well for all other devices. Any ideas how can I do it ?

Presently I am using terminal to run RSynch and Upload or Restore from iCloud onto my Desktop and MacBook. I am able to use all other devices directly from icloud. Most of my work is on desktop. However, using RSynch imposes a strict discipline on my part to ensure I upload to iCloud after making all changes, and then Restoring from iCloud when I work in my laptop and vice versa. This is prone to errors if I forget the sequence.

I do not wish to use Google drive or OneDrive as they sometimes have problems with file-naming conventions of Apple (The character set that can be used).

Any help will be most appreciated.

Mac mini, macOS 14.1

Posted on Apr 4, 2025 02:52 AM

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Answer 1

Zurarczurx

Level 4

2,568 points

Apr 4, 2025 03:18 AM in response to Vajpai

You can't use iCloud to keep folders in synch like you want to. The easiest way is to just put the folder in iCloud and make sure that the "Keep Downloaded" option is ticked on all your devices. The files will always be on your devices, even when you're offline.

If you want to continue with rsync then you could run rsync as cron job set to run periodically so you don't have to remember to do it. Google search for cron job will get you started.

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Answer 2

Vajpai Author

Level 1

15 points

Apr 4, 2025 10:45 AM in response to Zurarczurx

I think the "Keep Downloaded" option works only when we have the "Desktop & Documents" enabled. Not for other folders. They need to be downloaded specifically. However, in the above case, both Desktop and Document folders will be moved to iCloud whereas I do not want to have desktop on iCloud.

Regarding RSynch as Cron Job, yes I can do that, but real time syncing will not be possible and some delay is bound to happen. As a stop gap arrangement, I have made a script file using Rsynch, made it executable and use that within terminal instead of laboriously typing out the RSync command-line every time. Nevertheless, you have given a new idea regarding cron job and I will surely try that as well. Thanks.

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Syncing of folders on two computers via iCloud

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