Seafile

Seafile is a free hosting software system for Windows. Files are stored on a central server and can be synchronized with personal computers and mobile devices via the Seafile client.

Files can also be accessed via the server's web interface. The tool's functionality is similar to other popular services such as Dropbox and Google Drive, with the primary difference being that the program is free and open-source, enabling users to host their own Seafile servers without artificially imposed limits on storage space or client connections.

Writing a syncing tool that works on extreme situations and guarantees no data loss is not easy. It focuses on providing a reliable syncing tool. With over 3 years of polishing and used by hundreds of thousands of people, the tool's syncing algorithm is quite stable and reliable.

File histories and library snapshots enable you to easily recover any file or folder in the history. More than 300,000 users. Used by thousands of teams, companies, and organizations worldwide.

Features and Highlights

Reliable File Syncing
Organize files into libraries. A library can be selectively synced into any device. Reliable and efficient file syncing improves your productivity.

Built-in File Encryption
A library can be encrypted by a password chosen by you. Files are encrypted before syncing to the server. Even the system admin can't view the files.

Team Collaboration
Sharing into groups and collaboration around files. Permission control, versioning, and activity notification make collaboration easy and reliable.

High Performance
The core of the app server is written in C programming language. It is small and has a fantastic performance.

Easy to Upgrade
The upgrade can be done via running a simple script within a few seconds. Sea file records very few items in the database. No huge database upgrade is needed.

Enterprise Ready
AD/LDAP integration, group syncing, fine-grained permission control make the tool easily applied to your enterprise environment.

Drive Client for Windows
The Drive client enables you to access files on the server without syncing to the local disk. It works like a network drive. Click Here for Download.

Self-Hosted Alternatives

If you want control over your data and prefer self-hosting:

Nextcloud – A full-featured collaboration platform with file sync, calendar, contacts, and more.

ownCloud – Similar to Nextcloud, but with a focus on enterprise users.

Syncthing – A peer-to-peer file synchronization tool without central servers.

Resilio Sync – A proprietary, peer-to-peer file sync solution using BitTorrent technology.

Cloud-Based Alternatives

If you prefer a cloud-based solution:

Google Drive – Provides file sync, sharing, and cloud storage.

Microsoft OneDrive – Integrates well with Windows and Office 365.

pCloud – A privacy-focused cloud storage provider with zero-knowledge encryption.

Mega – Secure cloud storage with end-to-end encryption.

How to Use

• Launch Seafile and sign in with your account.
• Create or sync libraries to manage your files.
• Drag and drop files into the library for syncing.
• Share files and folders with links or permissions.
• Access version history and restore previous files.
• Sync files across multiple devices automatically.
• Set up client-side encryption for secure storage.
• Manage storage and settings in the Seafile client.
• Use the web interface for remote file access.

System Requirements

• OS: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 (64-bit)
• Processor: 1 GHz or faster
• RAM: 2 GB or more
• Disk Space: At least 200 MB free
• Internet: Required for syncing and sharing

PROS

• Fast and efficient file synchronization
• Strong security with encryption options
• Easy file sharing with access control
• Supports large file storage and transfer
• Available for multiple platforms

CONS

• Limited third-party app integrations
• Requires manual setup for advanced features
• No built-in document editing tools
• Some features need a paid subscription
• Interface may feel outdated for some users

Note: You get 1 GB of free storage when you sign up.

Also Available: Download Seafile for Mac