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How to get Dropbox to sync: A complete guide to Dropbox Smart Sync

by CantoSeptember 20, 20192 min. read
Animated workers pushing boxes together.

What is Dropbox Smart Sync?

Dropbox sync keeps files up to date across all connected devices by automatically uploading changes to the cloud and pushing them to other signed-in devices. Smart Sync, a feature in Dropbox’s paid plans, extends this by making files visible and accessible on the desktop without downloading them to local storage. Selective Sync gives users control over which folders are actively synced to a given device.

Digital asset management is a platform that stores, organizes, searches, manages, and distributes your brand’s digital assets.

What’s the difference between Smart Sync and Selective Sync?

Though they sound similar, Smart and Selective Sync are completely different. Smart Sync is how users access content from their desktop without taking up hard drive space. Selective Sync is how users pick which files are synced. This way they can prevent different files and folders from taking up hard drive space. Think of Selective Sync more as a way to pick which files are exclusively on your Dropbox rather than your PC.

A screenshot of Dropbox.
Selective Sync is similar to Smart Sync only in name.

When should you use Smart Sync?

Consider Smart Sync when you have a large amount of files stored in your Dropbox. Furthermore, Smart Sync is perfect for you if a lot of users share files with you. The convenience of being able to see and access these files without storing them on your hard drive is immense.

Another reason to use Smart Sync is if you have limited hard drive space on your PC. One of the biggest reasons people use Dropbox in the first place is to store files without sacrificing hard drive space. Smart Sync takes it one step further and lets them access the files from their desktop without storing them there.

A screenshot of the Dropbox interface.
Smart Sync saves hard drive space.

Benefits of Smart Sync

Files are easy to find

This is especially useful for work-related tasks. Being able to find specific files is necessary when completing work projects. Smart Sync brings all your files together for quick-finding.

Important folders are easy to access

Smart Sync makes it so much easier to access all your important projects. Instead of downloading large amounts of different files, a single click syncs folders directly to your desktop.

Keeps you organized

No longer will lesser-used folders clog up your system. With Smart Sync, you’ll be able to free up your clutter by moving unused files online. That way you don’t have to erase something you might need later and it won’t interfere with more active files.

Now that you understand the power of Smart Sync, measure whether it would be worth adding it to your Dropbox repertoire. If you’re a business looking for more comprehensive storage and sharing, consider upgrading to digital asset management.