[Big Mac]

Since getting my DP 2.0 in July, I'm now happily having to worry about keeping files current between my iBook and my G5 - both Macs are primary machines at different times of the day. So how do all of you handle keeping your personal files current between multiple Macs? I suppose I need an actual third party backup application to keep track of changes and multiple versions. Any suggestions from personal experience?

[Detrius]

The solution depends entirely on how much data you use on both machines and how often you switch. Also important is whether or not you leave the premises with the laptop.

[utidjian]

Originally posted by Big Mac:
Since getting my DP 2.0 in July, I'm now happily having to worry about keeping files current between my iBook and my G5 - both Macs are primary machines at different times of the day. So how do all of you handle keeping your personal files current between multiple Macs? I suppose I need an actual third party backup application to keep track of changes and multiple versions. Any suggestions from personal experience?

In Linux I use rsync. When I leave home for work I run a little script that syncs up a subset of folders (Work, Projects, whatever) from my home folder at home to my home folder at work. When I leave work for home I do the same thing (exact same script but with two parameters switched). I also use the same script for syncing the laptop with either work or home systems.

For Mac OS X I would use RsyncX ( at versiontracker and other places) because, like ditto, it preserves the HFS-ness of you files and folders. Both RsyncX and rsync work over networks, the internet, and locally connected drives.

Depending on how you use your systems I wouldn't recommend syncing your entire $HOME folder between desktop and laptop. Often you have prefs that may not translate well between systems. In my case, there is no way my home or work $HOME folder would fit on most laptops.

I am not sure but I think a .Mac and iSync offer this kind of functionality for a price. It may be worth it to you. I have also read somewhere (sorry I don't have a link) that there is a HOWTO on how to setup your own .Mac system.

[Big Mac]

Thank you for the input. .Mac iSync only supports files like bookmarks and address book entries, as far as I know. I have heard of rsync and will look into it and its OS X counterpart.

[Detrius]

Originally posted by Big Mac:
Thank you for the input. .Mac iSync only supports files like bookmarks and address book entries, as far as I know. I have heard of rsync and will look into it and its OS X counterpart.

Actually, you can store a local copy of your iDisk on both machines and edit from the local iDisk. This synchronizes with the central iDisk on a regular basis. You can also manually synchronize. Note that you have size limits here.

I also use a program called "Sync" to synchronize between two machines.

Again, which option is the best for you depends on how much data you have, how often you switch, and whether or not you take the laptop elsewhere--file sharing is a possibility.