Set a Device Sync Policy Preset

Device Sync Policies determine how your Mylio Photos Library is stored and accessed on each connected device. Mylio Photos includes several built-in sync policy presets designed to support different device types and workflows. You can also create custom SyncPolicies or use SyncCollections to tailor your setup even further.

By default, computers and mobile devices (phones and tablets) are typically assigned the SpaceSaver preset. When you connect a storage device—like an external hard drive—Mylio Photos will assess its available storage and recommend a suitable sync policy preset, such as Vault or Travel Backup. You can change the sync policy for any device at any time in the Devices section of the Dashboard.

Changing the Default Device Sync Policy Preset

To change the Device Sync Policy for a connected device:

1. Click the Dashboard icon in the left sidebar.
2. Select Devices, then click the Device Card for the device you want to update.

3. In the Device Settings panel, select Device Sync Policies.

4. Open the Preset dropdown menu and choose the desired sync policy preset from the list below.
   • Catalog Only – Stores only low-resolution thumbnails and metadata on the device, using minimal storage. Full-resolution files must be accessed from another online Mylio Photos device. Best for devices with very limited space or when quick browsing is all that’s needed.
   • Everything – Keeps a full copy of your entire Mylio Photos Library on the device, including all original-quality photos, videos, and documents. This functions like a Vault but without notifications if the device falls out of sync. Ideal for offsite backups or infrequently connected devices. For added protection, consider using the Vault preset.
   • Highest Rated – Builds on the Catalog Only preset by adding original-quality versions of your highest-rated photos—those rated 4 or 5 stars or marked with a Pick flag. All other media can be downloaded on demand. Ideal for devices like tablets or phones that showcase portfolio-quality images.
   • Optimized Images – Extends Catalog Only by storing optimized-quality versions of all photos. Videos and documents are not stored locally but are available on demand from other devices. A good choice when full-resolution photos aren’t necessary but a higher-quality preview is preferred.
   • Photos Only – Adds original-quality versions of all photos to the Catalog Only base, space permitting. Videos and documents are excluded but can be accessed on demand. Designed for photo-focused devices that don’t need to store non-photo media.
   • SpaceSaver (Default for computers, tablets, and phones) – Optimizes available space by storing as many optimized-quality photos as possible alongside thumbnails and metadata. Original files, videos, and documents are stored on other devices and downloaded as needed. Ideal for general use on devices with limited storage.
   • Travel Backup – Adds original-quality copies of all media from the past three months to the Catalog Only base. Older files are available on demand. Perfect for travel scenarios where you want a recent, local backup without storing your entire library.
   • Vault – Stores a complete, original-quality copy of your entire Mylio Photos Library. Vaults are critical for data protection. Mylio Photos will alert you if a Vault falls out of sync. We recommend maintaining at least two Vaults for redundancy in case of device loss or failure.

5. After selecting a preset, click Apply Changes at the bottom of the panel. Mylio Photos will begin syncing the selected device based on the new preset.

6. If your new sync policy preset reduces the amount of storage used (for example, switching from SpaceSaver to Catalog Only), Mylio Photos will prompt you to clear cached files and free up space.
   • Click Yes, Clear Cache to immediately remove unused files.
   • Click No, Keep Files to retain cached files.
   • Closing the dialog has the same effect as selecting No, Keep Files.

*NOTE: If you’ve previously used Tap to Sync to set a custom sync policy for specific folders, the selected preset will show an asterisk * next to the preset name. Custom sync policies set with Tap to Sync will be preserved; however, if you prefer to switch your entire library to the new sync policy, click or tap the button at the bottom of the screen to Clear Legacy Folder Policies.

Learn More:

• Create a Custom Device Sync Policy with SyncCollections