Home Glossary Zoho WorkDrive Selective Sync
Zoho WorkDrive

Selective Sync

A setting in the Zoho WorkDrive desktop app that allows users to choose which specific folders to sync locally, rather than downloading all WorkDrive content.

What Is Selective Sync in Zoho WorkDrive?

Selective Sync in Zoho WorkDrive lets users choose which folders from their WorkDrive account are synchronised to their local computer. Instead of downloading the entire WorkDrive content to every device, users can select only the folders they access frequently, keeping local disk usage manageable while still having full access to all WorkDrive files through the browser or desktop app on demand.

How Selective Sync Works

In the WorkDrive desktop app settings, users see a list of their available Team Folders and My Folder and can check or uncheck each one. Checked folders are synced locally and kept up to date in real time. Unchecked folders remain in WorkDrive but are not downloaded until the user navigates to them in the desktop app or browser, at which point they stream on demand.

When to Use Selective Sync

Selective Sync is particularly valuable for users with large Team Folders they are not directly involved in, or for those working on laptops with limited SSD storage. By syncing only the folders they actively work with, users avoid filling their local drive with files they rarely open while retaining instant access to the content they need offline.

Can I change my Selective Sync settings after the initial setup?

Yes. You can update your Selective Sync configuration at any time through the WorkDrive desktop app settings. Adding a folder to the sync list downloads its current contents to your device. Removing a folder from the sync list deletes the local copies but leaves the files intact in WorkDrive, so no data is lost by adjusting sync preferences.

Does Selective Sync affect other team members’ access to the same folders?

No. Selective Sync only controls which folders are cached locally on your device. It does not change the folder’s permissions, visibility, or availability in WorkDrive for other team members. Other users see and access the same folders through their own WorkDrive apps regardless of your sync settings.

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