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Best Linux alternatives to Resilio Sync
Resilio Sync is a peer-to-peer tool that syncs folders directly between devices using a modified BitTorrent protocol, without central servers.
Updated
Quick answer
The best Linux alternative to Resilio Sync is SyncThingy. Other strong options: Nextcloud Desktop Client, rsync, Unison.
6 Linux alternatives to Resilio Sync
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SyncThingy is a lightweight tray icon that controls Syncthing, letting you view status, stop, and manage the sync service via the web UI.
SyncThingy is a good replacement for Resilio Sync if you're comfortable using Syncthing as the backend. It’s not a sync tool itself but a lightweight tray interface for managing Syncthing, which does the actual P2P syncing. Syncthing fills the same role as Resilio Sync—decentralized, direct folder…
Feature parity85% -
Syncs files between your Linux desktop and a Nextcloud server, keeping documents and photos up to date across devices.
Nextcloud Desktop Client is a good replacement for Resilio Sync if you're okay with using a central server instead of direct peer-to-peer syncing. It reliably syncs folders across devices, supports versioning and file recovery, and works well on Linux with native packages and Flatpak. While it…
Feature parity75% -
rsync is a command-line tool for efficiently syncing files and directories locally or over a network.
rsync is not a direct replacement for Resilio Sync, but it excels at one-way, controlled file synchronization over SSH or network paths where you have shell access. It’s ideal for users who prioritize automation, scripting, and full control over their sync process, such as system administrators or…
Feature parity40% -
Unison is a cross-platform file synchronization tool that keeps two directories in sync across different systems.
Unison is a solid replacement for Resilio Sync if you control both ends of the sync and prefer direct, secure, bidirectional synchronization without relying on P2P networks. It works well for users who need reliable, scriptable, and secure file updates between trusted machines, especially over SSH…
Feature parity60% -
Lsyncd mirrors directories locally or over networks using rsync, ideal for real-time file synchronization on Linux systems.
Lsyncd is not a direct replacement for Resilio Sync in peer-to-peer or multi-device sync scenarios. It works well if you need real-time syncing from one Linux machine to another over SSH using rsync, but lacks Resilio’s decentralized, cross-platform P2P model. It's a solid choice for system…
Feature parity40% -
FreeFileSync is a visual tool for comparing and synchronizing folders, ideal for keeping files consistent across locations.
FreeFileSync is not a direct replacement for Resilio Sync, but serves a different purpose. If you need real-time, peer-to-peer folder syncing across devices without central servers, FreeFileSync does not provide that. It's ideal for manual or scheduled one-time syncs between local or networked…
Feature parity30%
What is Resilio Sync?
Resilio Sync is used to keep folders in sync across multiple devices, such as desktops, laptops, and servers. It's popular with users who want to avoid cloud storage and maintain direct control over their data transfer and storage. The app runs in the background, automatically syncing changes in real time.
It's proprietary software, offered under a freemium model: the basic version is free with core features, while advanced options like remote access and selective sync require a paid license. There is no open-source license, and redistribution is not allowed.
People look for Linux alternatives because Resilio Sync, while available for Linux, is closed-source and lacks transparency. Some want fully open tools they can audit or modify. Others prefer solutions that integrate better with Linux workflows or avoid vendor dependency.
Can you run Resilio Sync on Linux?
Resilio Sync has a native Linux client available as a .deb or .rpm package, or as a standalone archive. It runs without Wine or compatibility layers. The interface is minimal, managed either through a system tray icon or a web browser pointing to localhost:8888. While functional, some users report occasional issues with file indexing on large directories.
Which alternative should you choose?
For automatic, continuous syncing with minimal setup, use Syncthing. If you want full cloud control and user sharing, Nextcloud Desktop Client works well with a self-hosted server. Rsync is ideal for scripted, one-way syncs. Unison handles two-way sync reliably. Lsyncd monitors and triggers rsync on changes. FreeFileSync offers a GUI for manual or scheduled sync tasks.
Moving your Resilio Sync files and habits
Resilio Sync stores data in plain folders, so moving files to another tool is straightforward. No special conversion is needed. Synced files remain accessible after switching. However, Resilio's device links and sync history can't be imported into alternatives. You'll need to reconfigure folder sharing manually in the new app.
Side-by-side comparison
| App | License | Flatpak | Latest version | Feature parity | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SyncThingy | GPL-3.0 | ✓ | 1.0 | 85% | — |
| Nextcloud Desktop Client | GPL-2.0+ | ✓ | 35.0.0 | 75% | — |
| rsync | GPL-3.0 | — | 3.5.1 | 40% | — |
| Unison | GPL-3.0-or-later | ✓ | 2.54.0 | 60% | 5/5 |
| Lsyncd | GPL-2.0 | — | 2.3.1 | 40% | — |
| FreeFileSync | GPL-3.0 | ✓ | 14.13 | 30% | — |
Resilio Sync: frequently asked questions
Is Syncthing like Resilio Sync?
Yes, Syncthing is peer-to-peer and doesn't use central servers. It's open-source and offers real-time sync, making it the closest Linux alternative.
Can I use Resilio Sync on Linux?
Yes, Resilio Sync has official Linux packages for x86_64. You can install it directly without compatibility layers.
Does Syncthing encrypt traffic?
Yes, all connections in Syncthing are encrypted using TLS. Devices authenticate via certificate exchange, ensuring secure peer-to-peer transfers.
Can I sync only specific folders?
Yes, both Resilio Sync and most alternatives like Syncthing, Unison, and FreeFileSync allow selective folder synchronization.
How important is Resilio Sync to you?
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