Mirror copy /Zotero folder between two computers

bruno_vieira_de_melo

I've read the documentation and some forum posts regarding the use of the same library between two computers. I'm assuming that the following scenario is possible in a single situation, but some validation from experienced users would be very much appreciated when using it as a workflow.

I have two computers with shared folders to allow access or to transfer files. I have Zotero installed on both computers to use a single library offline. No simultaneous use occurs.

With both programmes closed, if the Zotero folder from computer 1 is mirrored (software copied; the same as replacing or updating) to computer 2 (and later vice-versa), will this be safe in a long term or some potential conflicts my occur?

Much appreciated.

dstillman

They're just files. If you transfer them to another computer, they'll work, the same as if you were restoring from a backup. But you can't have your database in a cloud storage folder or any other sort of situation where you might open Zotero and have Zotero open while the file is transferred.

https://www.zotero.org/support/kb/data_directory_in_cloud_storage_folder

bruno_vieira_de_melo

Perfect. Thank you!

Am I assuming correctly that in the case that data syncing is used in this specific scenario, this workflow should be changed to mirror only /Zotero/storage?

dstillman

Yes, that's mentioned here:

https://www.zotero.org/support/sync#alternative_syncing_solutions

bruno_vieira_de_melo

Understood. I was not sure about its consistency as a continuous workflow.
Most appreciated for validating this!