Sync External Folders with SkyDrive - A How-To Guide
Microsoft SkyDrive Desktop App: Syncing Beyond the Default Folder
Microsoft has recently released a new desktop application for SkyDrive, positioning it as a direct competitor to established cloud storage services like Dropbox and Google Drive.
Syncing Folders Outside of SkyDrive
The new SkyDrive app allows users to synchronize folders located outside of the standard SkyDrive directory. This functionality expands the app’s utility and offers greater flexibility in file management.
Here’s a guide detailing the process of syncing folders that aren’t contained within your primary SkyDrive folder.
- First, ensure you have the latest version of the SkyDrive desktop application installed.
- Next, navigate to the SkyDrive settings within the application.
- Within the settings, locate the "Account" tab.
- Select the option to "Choose folders" to specify which directories you want to synchronize.
This feature enables users to maintain backups and access files from various locations on their computer through SkyDrive. It provides a convenient method for comprehensive file synchronization.
By utilizing this capability, users can seamlessly integrate existing folder structures into their cloud storage workflow, enhancing productivity and data security.
Understanding and Utilizing Reparse Points
Frequently referred to as Soft Links, Symbolic Links represent a prevalent type of reparse point. Fortunately, Windows Vista and subsequent versions incorporate a command-line tool, mklink, designed for the management of these links. To establish a symbolic link, identifying your SkyDrive folder is the initial step. By default, this folder resides at:
C:\Users\"Your Username"\SkyDrive
This location is also accessible through the %userprofile% environment variable, simplifying the creation process. Therefore, launch an administrative command prompt to proceed.
The mklink utility is then employed to generate the symbolic link. The syntax for linking to a directory is as follows:
mklink /d <link> <target>
When linking to individual files, the "/d" switch is unnecessary; the command simplifies to:
mklink <link> <target>
Leveraging environment variables offers additional flexibility. For example:
mklink /d “%userprofile%\SkyDrive\Music” C:\Music
This command establishes a symbolic link directing to the Music folder located on the root of the "C" drive. Consequently, any files placed within this folder will be automatically synchronized with your SkyDrive. Verification of this synchronization can be performed by inspecting your SkyDrive contents.
As illustrated, the symlink is present and operates as anticipated. The process is straightforward, allowing for seamless symlink creation.
The successful implementation is visually confirmed. This concludes the process of creating and utilizing symbolic links.
Enjoy the benefits of symlinking and streamlined file synchronization.