Folder synchronization becomes a necessity when the user has several computers on which he works in different places. A file created on one PC must be transferred exactly to another. In this case, work on it can be continued continuously. With the Internet, this problem can be easily solved. cloud services, when the user accesses his files from any workstation. In this material we will consider options for implementing this task using operating system even in the absence network connection.

Synchronizing folders in Windows 7 can be done in several ways, depending on the type of media. To work over a network, you can use the Synchronization Center, and for removable media, the Briefcase function.

Briefcase

To create a new Portfolio, we will use the context menu. This can be done on the desktop or in any user folder.

In the created Portfolio we copy the folder with documents that need to be worked on at another workplace. Now you can move it to a flash drive and go to a second computer. Having connected the removable media, open the Briefcase and perform the necessary operations with the files. Having completed the work, we return to the first PC and synchronize the changes.

If at this time someone was working with the initial folder and making changes to previously created files, this will be reflected in the update menu. The box marked with a frame shows what operations will be performed to synchronize the content. In this case we have several options:

  1. The file was created on the first PC and is not in the Briefcase.
  2. Changes were made to the existing document on the second computer and now the original needs to be replaced.
  3. The file was created on the second PC and must be copied to the original directory on the first.

By clicking on the “Update” button, we bring the contents of the directories on the computer and the removable media to the same state.

For each file, you can call the context menu and view details of the operations performed with it.

Changes made can be synchronized or left on one computer old version document.

In this way, you can organize work with a flash drive or with a removable hard drive that can be moved between workstations.

Offline files

The second option involves working with a network resource. For example, this could be a directory located on a NAS or other computer and open to public access. We select the desired resource in Explorer and find the folder in it that we will work with. IN context menu select the item marked “1”.

After the computer completes the first synchronization, open the folder properties. As you can see, the files in it became available in offline mode. Now you can work with them even when the network resource is unavailable.

The changes you make can be transferred to the parent folder manually or you can set up a schedule for this task. The second option is implemented using the Synchronization Center.

In the control panel we find the indicated item.

The Sync Center opens in the Manage Relationships tab. Having selected the “offline files” section, we will activate the “Schedule” button on the task panel.

We mark the network storage in which the desired directory with documents is located.

For example, let's choose event synchronization.

Here you can select multiple values ​​at the same time. Note that the operation is performed when the OS starts and is idle.

Assign a name to the created rule.

As a result, synchronization with the selected network storage will be performed according to the specified schedule. Last point in the Center navigation pane, opens options for managing offline files on your PC.

After finishing working with network storage, you can disable its use on the General tab.

The next tab shows data on the use of disk space for storing temporary copies. When you no longer need them, you can clear the disk of synchronization objects.

A common drawback of the considered tools is their inability to handle group work with documents. If edits are made to working files from two or more PCs at the same time, a conflict of changes occurs. In this case, the user is forced to manually select the required version of the document.

Windows 10

Network synchronization of files and folders in Windows 10 is performed using similar tools. Limited capabilities for working with folders have led to the fact that the Briefcase function is excluded from the set of components. Instead, the user gets the opportunity to use OneDrive network storage, which supports teamwork. Another available synchronization tool in Windows is the Microsoft SyncToy utility. With its help you can work with any local and network media.

SyncToy

Work on the utility was abandoned back in 2009, but it copes with the assigned tasks in modern versions of operating systems.

When you launch the program for the first time, the Link Creation Wizard is activated. Users are prompted to select “left” and “right” folders. This is how the developers “christened” the source and recipient.

The next step is to select the synchronization type. Three options are available:

  1. Synchronize. Full synchronization of all completed file operations in both directions.
  2. Echo. Copying changes made in the “left” folder to the “right” folder.
  3. Contribute. Selective copying. Only new or changed documents are transferred from the source to the destination. Deleting files is ignored.

At the final stage, we set the name of the created connection.

In the main window we see a given pair of folders. If desired, you can change the selected synchronization type or set additional rules. Here you can delete the link or create an additional pair of directories. Clicking the marked button starts synchronization.

The progress of the operation is shown by an indication bar. Once completed, the window displays detailed execution statistics.

The utility supports the creation of an unlimited number of connections. Operations can be performed for everyone together or by selecting the currently required pair of directories.

In conclusion

As you can see, folder synchronization in Windows can be organized using built-in tools or using a special utility developed by Microsoft. Additional features needed for teamwork, can provide cloud storage OneDrive, which is a system component.

One of the very convenient Windows features 10 is a possibility Android sync With personal computer using the “Continue on PC” function. It allows smartphone users to transfer the active session of using a web browser to the computer and continue surfing the Internet in the Windows operating system. At the same time, no mandatory requirement connecting to the same network as the PC, or using a USB cable.

Function Continue on PC is now available for users running the latest update from Microsoft - Windows Fall Creators Update. In this article, we will look at the steps required to connect your phone to a personal computer.

Is it necessary to connect a smartphone to a PC?

The objective answer is yes. Firstly, synchronization does not cause any harm to the user, and secondly, it has impressive advantages. The ability to transfer a web session is not the only useful addition; Microsoft added the ability using Action Center receive notifications from applications installed on Android.

Thus, without having a smartphone at hand, the user has a constant opportunity to receive notifications about new messages on social networks or any other information for which the software on the phone is intended.

Connect Android to Windows 10 PC

It is important to note that the user will need a working mobile number to synchronize the smartphone with the operating system Windows system. This article will use Android device, however, if you want to connect an iPhone, the process won't be much different.

To synchronize devices, use the instructions below.

1. Open menu Settings in Windows 10.

2. Select menu Telephone.

3. Now, to connect Android to the operating system, click on the button Add phone and make sure that the Internet is turned on on your smartphone and PC.

4. In the window that appears, select the country code and enter the number mobile phone. Next click Send and a text message will be sent to your smartphone.

5. Using the link received in SMS, download mobile application Microsoft Apps. This is a necessary step if you want to pair your smartphone with Windows 10 and use the Continue on PC feature. There is no such requirement for iPhone.

IN latest updates the process has been changed and now the SMS contains a link to install the application Microsoft Launcher. Browser available for iOS Microsoft Edge . After logging into any of the applications, your device will appear on the computer in the section Windows 10 Phone.

Once the process is complete, you will be able to use new button Continue on PC in Cortana and Edge browsers. Any page you view on your smartphone can always be sent to your computer with just one click.

Synchronization is a one-time process. However, if any error occurs while using new feature or trying to link two devices, you can always remove installed applications and repeat the steps.

How to disconnect your phone from Windows 10?

If you change your mind about syncing your smartphone with Windows 10, Microsoft gave users can disconnect it from the operating system at any time. To do this, go to the section Telephone and press Manage all devices associated with your Microsoft account. A new browser window will appear in front of you, where you can find your phone. Click Cancel connection with a smartphone or Remove device and the computer will forget it.

Some users may not like the notifications on their computer for each new notification from Android applications or iPhone. In this case, desynchronization will solve the annoying issue. However, it should be mentioned that this will disconnect all active devices from the computer.

“Continue on PC” isn't limited to Cortana

An additional convenient feature of the new service is the ability to one-way transfer images from your phone to your computer. However, you will need to take an extra step to use it.

Links stored in Google Keep, you can open directly on your Windows 10 computer. The “ Continue on PC” is available for any service that supports the ability to transfer images from Android to computer. However, the function will only work if the link being created is shared.

Unfortunately for users iOS given The feature is not available because the Cortana app is not available for their platform.

Cross device

To connect everything additional features that open when using “Continue on PC”, you should enable the function Cortana cross device, which can be found in the application of the same name on Android.

With the Cortana app, you can sync various events on your smartphone, such as missed call notifications, incoming messages, low level battery charge and notifications installed applications. Don't forget to explore a few useful tips on using the Action Center.

To enable sync options, visit Cortana > Swipe from left to right > Settings > Cross device. Connect the add-ons you are interested in.

After enabling synchronization, you will be able to choose which applications will cause notifications to appear on your PC. Click Choose and select the software that needs to be connected to the computer. By default, all features and applications are disabled.

Send photos and videos over Wi-Fi in Windows 10

In addition to syncing your smartphone with Windows 10, there are other ways to transfer data between devices. Microsoft has released a new application called “ Photos companion”, designed for transferring photos and videos from Android and iOS devices to your computer via Wi-Fi. Read the necessary steps to set up “Photos Companion”.

Connect your phone to Windows 10 using USB

If you want to connect your phone to your PC via a USB cable, Microsoft already has an app for that, which is known as Phone Manager.

It allows you to synchronize Android, iOS or Windows Phone with a personal computer. The application is available in Microsoft Store for Windows 8.1 and higher.

With the release of the Anniversary Update in Windows 10, it became possible to synchronize notifications from your smartphone with your computer. It works through Cortana, but is available even in those countries where there is no official support for this assistant yet (that is, in Russia too).

You can synchronize notifications from your PC on smartphones with Windows 10 Mobile and Android, but iOS does not support this function due to software restrictions set by Apple. Synchronizing notifications is useful if you work on a computer and don’t want to grab your phone every time it vibrates or makes sounds - just look at the monitor to assess how important a notification has arrived on your device. Moreover, Windows 10 even allows you to perform certain actions with notifications, for example, send a response message via SMS or messenger directly from your computer.

How to set up notification synchronization between Windows 10 and Android?

1. Activate Cortana on your computer. By default in Russia it is disabled, so you need to go to “Settings” “Time and languages” “Region and language”, add English language(if it is not already added) and set it as the main one. Click on Language Options, download language pack and "speech".

2. Restart your computer and open the search bar (magnifying glass icon on the notification panel or Win + S), enter “Cortana” or “Cortana”.

3. Cortana options will open. Activate all toggle switches. Cortana will now operate in a limited mode just enough to sync notifications.

4. Install the Cortana application on your smartphone. It is posted in Google Play, but not available in Russia, you can download it from APK Mirror.

5. Launch Cortana on your smartphone, log in with the same Microsoft account you use on Windows 10, and grant the application all the required permissions.

6. Go to Cortana settings and open the Sync notifications section. Activate the App notification sync toggle switch. To do this, you will have to provide Cortana with additional permissions in the system settings of your smartphone.

7. In the Sync notifications section, another item will appear - Choose which apps to sync. Go into it and select notifications from which applications you want to receive on your computer.

Ready. Now your computer will receive notifications from applications installed on your smartphone, and you can even respond to them. Synchronization is carried out through Microsoft servers, so it works even if the devices are connected to different networks (for example, a computer is connected to Wi-Fi, and a smartphone is connected to the cellular Internet).

You can synchronize notifications between your computer and smartphone using different applications. We recommend reading

If you own multiple Windows 10 devices, then this topic is relevant for you. Do you want to use one set of settings on all computers or do you prefer to create your own configuration for each PC?

In any case, Windows 10 offers standard methods to synchronize system settings between devices. You can sync your desktop wallpaper, browser settings, some passwords, language preferences, and many other settings.

Microsoft Account

For synchronization to work, you must use the same account. Microsoft entry on all devices. If you have not created a Microsoft account, you can do this in the system settings:

  • Open the Settings app.
  • Select the “Accounts” section.
  • Select the “Your Data” tab.
  • Click the “Sign in with a Microsoft account instead” link.
  • Create an account and log in.

It is important to keep in mind that this process changes the type account from local to Microsoft account.

Sync your settings

Make sure you are logged into your account at Windows device 10. Then go to the application Settings > Accounts > Sync your settings. By default, sync is enabled, but you can turn sync off completely by turning the Sync Options switch to the inactive position. In addition, you can disable synchronization of individual parameters. Let's take a closer look at what data each switch is responsible for synchronizing.

  • The first option is called "Theme". A theme consists of a desktop image, an accent color, sounds, and a splash screen. The main idea is that instead of choosing individual wallpapers, colors, sounds and screensavers, you choose one theme that brings all these elements together. To view and apply a theme, go to the Settings app > Personalization > Themes. You can apply an existing theme built into Windows 10 or download other themes from the Microsoft website.
  • The second option is called "Options" Internet Explorer" and allows you to sync your favorites, browsing history and other content from the Microsoft browser.
  • The "Passwords" option is responsible for synchronizing the credentials of some sites and Windows applications 10.
  • The Language Settings option allows you to sync your spelling dictionary and other language settings.
  • The Accessibility option lets you sync your accessibility tools settings from the Accessibility section of the Settings app, including Narrator and Magnifier settings.
  • Option "Others" Windows settings" sounds vague, but in fact it allows you to synchronize many parameters, in particular the list of installed applications, the list of connected printers, the size and color of the mouse cursor, the location of the taskbar, etc.

Syncing not only ensures that all computers and tablets use the same settings, but is also a great way to backup parameters. If one of the devices fails, you can easily return the settings after restoration.

We're sorry for the issues you're experiencing with the Mail and Calendar apps on Windows 10. To resolve the issues, try the following steps in order.

Getting Started

Before you begin, make sure your device has latest version operating system and applications. Try the general solutions described in Troubleshoot the Mail and Calendar apps for Windows 10. If this doesn't help, move on to the solutions below.

Check your connection to the mail server

If you have problems sending or receiving email, make sure you have access to the mail server.

    Make sure your device is connected to the Internet. An Internet connection is required to send and receive email. Make sure your device is connected to it.

    Try sending a message via the Internet. Many email service providers allow you to use your email through their website. Log into your email account on the website and make sure you can send and receive messages through it. If this fails, there may be a problem with mail server. Contact your email service provider.

    Try sending a message from another app or device. If you are using another mail application either another computer or mobile device, try sending and receiving mail through it. If this fails, there may be a problem with the mail server. Contact your email service provider.

    Check with your email service provider to see if the email server is running. If the provider doesn't have a website and you can't set up email in another app or device, check with the provider to see if an email server is available.

Check your security software

Firewalls and antivirus programs may prevent your email and calendar events from syncing. Although we do not recommend completely disabling this software, disabling it temporarily will help you find out if this is the problem.

Note: If your device is connected to a network, network policy settings may prevent you from performing these steps. For more information, contact your administrator.

Disable Windows Defender Security Center

Windows Defender Security Center is free and included with Windows 10. If you haven't already installed other security software, temporarily disable Windows Defender Security Center.

ATTENTION! Be sure to follow the steps above again to enable the firewall for each network profile.

Allow Mail and Calendar apps in Windows Firewall

If you're able to sync your email after turning off your firewall, you'll need to allow the Mail and Calendar apps in your firewall.

Disable third-party security software

Third-party firewalls and antivirus programs may prevent your email and calendar events from syncing. While we don't recommend permanently disabling such software, disabling it temporarily will help determine if it is the problem. Check their documentation to find out how to temporarily disable them.

WARNING.

Remove your account and add it again

In some cases, synchronization problems can be resolved by removing the account from the Mail and Calendar apps and adding it again.

Note: .

Remove the account and add it again using advanced setup

If you still can't sync your email after deleting your account and adding it again, you may need to add the account using the advanced setup. See section for instructions.

If you have Google, Yahoo! iCloud, IMAP, or POP3 email account, check the settings under Advanced Options mailbox to make sure they are set up for your email service provider. If you use an Outlook.com, Office 365, or Exchange account, you won't be able to configure advanced mailbox settings unless the account is set up using Advanced Setup.

Note: There are special instructions for Yahoo! Email, iCloud and QQ accounts. If you're having problems with one of these accounts, see the special instructions for other accounts section.

Contact your email service provider for the information you need.

Before you check advanced settings, you'll need to look them up on your email service provider's website or ask your email service provider for them. You will need the following information:

    Incoming and outgoing mail server addresses.

    Incoming and outgoing mail server ports.

    Does the outgoing mail server require authentication?

    Are the same username and password used to receive and send mail?

    If the username and password are different, make sure you have entered the correct username and password.

    Is SSL required for an incoming mail server?

    Is SSL required for outgoing mail server?

    Contact server (if applicable).

    Calendar server (if applicable).

Check advanced mailbox options

If you are using an Exchange account that requires advanced settings, you must remove the account and add it again with such settings. For instructions, see Add an account using advanced setup.

Check your privacy settings

Check if two-factor authentication is enabled for your account

Two-factor authentication helps protect your account by making it more difficult for others to sign in. Your identity is verified not only through your password, but also through communication with you (and security information is provided).

Windows 10 Mail and Calendar apps don't support two-factor verification authenticity. If two-factor authentication is enabled for your account, you will need to create an app password. The app password is used instead of the regular password for apps that don't support two-factor authentication.

Contact your email service provider for information about how to create an application password for your account.

An error message appears when syncing mail

Sometimes you see an error message when you try to sync new messages or calendar events in the Mail and Calendar apps. Below is how to solve the most common problems.

Your account settings are out of date

Typically, the cause of account settings becoming out of date is an incorrect password. On the notification panel, click Fix your account. If your password is incorrect, you will be prompted to change it. Enter New Password and press the button Ready.

Advice: If you want to change your account password on your postal service(such as Gmail or iCloud), you will need to do this on the appropriate website. For more information, see Change your password in the Mail app for Windows 10.

If the problem is not a password issue, you may have a certificate error. In this case, the message "A proxy security certificate error has been detected. The certification authority that issued this security certificate is not trusted."

This error often occurs when SSL is not used to secure your email account. To fix it, do the following:

The device does not meet the security requirements set by your email administrator

If you receive this error message, please read the device security requirements.

Error 0x80072726

Error 0x80072726 may be caused by a third-party firewall or antivirus program. While we don't recommend permanently disabling such programs, you can check the manufacturer's website to see if there is a workaround, or temporarily disable the software and see if that fixes the problem. If yes, contact service technical support manufacturer to learn how to access email without turning off the software.

Warning: If you have disabled antivirus program, do not open attachments or click on links in messages from people you do not know.

Have additional questions?

Send us feedback

We value your opinion. If the Mail or Calendar app doesn't have the features you're looking for, or if a feature doesn't work correctly, please provide feedback to the development team.


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