Synchronizing on Demand, on Idle, or on Schedule

The default logoff/logon synchronization scheme ensures that work is current when you leave the office and when you return. For most users, this is all the synchronization that’s needed. You can, however, have Windows synchronize at other times as well. To do so, choose Start, All Programs, Accessories, Synchronize. Or choose Tools, Synchronize in Windows Explorer. The Items To Synchronize dialog box (also known as the Synchronization Manager) appears, as shown in Figure 15-6.

Figure 15-6. You can use this dialog box to schedule a synchronization.

To synchronize immediately, select the items you want to synchronize and click Synchronize. For other options, click Setup. The Synchronization Settings dialog box, shown in Figure 15-7, has three tabs. Use the Logon/Logoff tab to fine-tune the way Windows synchronizes at these critical times. Use the other two tabs to set up synchronization when your computer is idle or at other scheduled times.

Figure 15-7. The Synchronization Settings dialog box includes a check box that allows you to request a confirmation prompt before synchronization occurs.

tip

By selecting Ask Me Before Synchronizing The Items in the Synchronization Settings dialog box, you can ensure that Windows never synchronizes files without your permission.