As a DJ, keeping your music library in perfect sync between your desktop workstation and performance laptop is crucial. You want to ensure that the tracks, edits, and playlists you create in the studio are ready to go when you hit the stage. But cloud-based solutions can be slow, costly, or raise privacy concerns. Enter Syncthing — the free, open-source tool that syncs your files directly between devices over your private network. No cloud. No subscriptions. No stress.
🔄 What is Syncthing?
Syncthing is a continuous file synchronization program. It securely syncs files between two or more devices in real time. Think of it as your private cloud that lives on your own hardware. With end-to-end encryption, Syncthing ensures your music never leaves your own trusted network.
🎵 Why DJs Should Use Syncthing
1️⃣ Automatic Syncing Over Your Private Wi-Fi
If you’re like me, you work on your desktop at home and perform on a laptop. With Syncthing running on both devices and a solid private Wi-Fi network (like one powered by TP-Link Deco X55), any new track you add, edit you make, or playlist you tweak on one device gets synced to the other automatically. No manual transfers, no USB sticks — just pure, uninterrupted flow.
2️⃣ Real-Time Updates for Last-Minute Changes
Ever had a set ready, only to find a killer new track right before a gig? With Syncthing, you can add the track to your desktop, and it will automatically appear on your laptop — all in real time. You’ll always be ready for those spontaneous bangers.
3️⃣ No Cloud, No Worries
Cloud services can have size limits, subscription fees, and privacy concerns. Syncthing keeps everything local, syncing files directly between your devices. This means faster transfers, no data leaks, and zero ongoing costs.
4️⃣ Cross-Platform Magic
Whether you’re running Ubuntu on your workstation (like we do at Rave Goat HQ) or macOS/Windows on your laptop, Syncthing works across all major operating systems. Your workflow stays smooth, no matter the device.
⚡ How to Set Up Syncthing for DJ File Syncing
Step 1: Install Syncthing on both your desktop and laptop.
Step 2: Connect both devices to your TP-Link Deco X55 mesh network for fast and stable transfers.
Step 3: Select your music library folder on your desktop to sync.
Step 4: Accept the folder on your laptop’s Syncthing interface.
Step 5: Let Syncthing handle the rest — your tracks will always be in sync!
💡 Pro Tips for DJs Using Syncthing
- Sync Your Rekordbox/Serato Libraries: Keep your performance software databases in sync alongside your tracks.
- Offline Syncing: No internet? No problem. Syncthing syncs locally over your mesh network without the need for cloud access.
- Backup Bonus: Set up a third device (like a NAS) as a backup node for extra data security.
🎚️ Final Thoughts
With Syncthing, you can focus on what really matters: creating unforgettable sets. Your music stays perfectly synced between your studio workstation and performance laptop without relying on the cloud. Plus, with your TP-Link Deco X55 keeping the network stable, you’ve got the perfect setup for a seamless DJ workflow.
Have questions about setting up Syncthing? Drop a comment below or hit us up on Rave Matrix — our community chat right here on ravegoat.com! Let’s keep the beats flowing. 🔊🐐💜