Seafile – file syncing and sharing

Seafile is a cloud storage platform designed for reliable file synchronisation, secure document sharing and teamwork. It organises files into libraries that can be managed independently, allowing users to maintain separate collections for different projects or purposes.

Its synchronisation engine is designed to handle large file collections efficiently, even across less reliable network connections. Seafile has also developed into a broader information management platform, with flexible metadata views and document collaboration tools that complement its traditional storage capabilities.

This is free and open source software.

Key Features

  • Selective synchronisation allows users to choose individual libraries or folders rather than downloading everything from the server.
  • Delta synchronisation transfers only changed file content, reducing bandwidth consumption and transfer times.
  • Interrupted transfers can be resumed, while file conflicts are handled using revision history rather than relying exclusively on timestamps.
  • Synchronise existing local directories and work with libraries stored on multiple servers.
  • Virtual drive client provides on-demand access to remote files without requiring entire libraries to be downloaded.
  • Client-side encryption protects password-controlled libraries before files are transferred to the server.
  • Share folders with individuals or groups, including password-protected download links and upload links for receiving files.
  • File version history allows users to inspect changes and restore earlier revisions.
  • Extensible metadata properties support custom fields, document relationships, labels and hierarchical tags.
  • Multiple views, including tables, Kanban boards, galleries, maps and statistics, help organise document collections.
  • Online document editing supports Markdown, rich text and integration with compatible office applications.
  • Additional knowledge management capabilities include wikis, document review workflows and collaborative editing.

Website: github.com/haiwen/seafile
Support:
Developer: Seafile Ltd.
License: GNU General Public License v2.0 (desktop client); GNU Affero General Public License v3.0 (server and Android client)

Seafile in action

Seafile (desktop client) is written in C and Python. Learn C with our recommended free books and free tutorials. Learn Python with our recommended free books and free tutorials.


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