If you’ve ever struggled to move files between your Android device and PC without cables, this guide will change the game. Using Termux, you can create a simple, secure, and wireless way to sync files. Whether it’s documents, images, or backups, this setup ensures you never have to plug in a USB cable again.
Why Syncing Wirelessly is a Game-Changer
Most people still transfer files using USB cables or cloud services. While cloud services are convenient, they often come with storage limits and privacy concerns. Syncing via Termux keeps your files local, private, and completely under your control. Plus, this method works even if you have limited internet access, unlike cloud-based solutions.
If you want to strengthen your security further while syncing, consider reading my guide on Surfshark VPN and best VPNs for Termux to ensure your network stays private while transferring files.
Requirements
- An Android device with Termux installed (installation guide)
- A PC on the same local network
- Basic familiarity with Termux commands
- Optional: cybersecurity best practices knowledge for safe transfers
Step 1: Install Required Packages in Termux
First, open Termux on your Android device and update your packages:
pkg update && pkg upgrade -y
pkg install openssh rsync -y
This installs OpenSSH for secure connections and rsync for efficient file syncing. Rsync is great because it only transfers changes, saving time and bandwidth.
Step 2: Set Up SSH on Android
SSH allows your PC to securely access your Android files. To start the SSH server on Termux, run:
sshd
Termux will start the SSH server and display your device’s local IP address. Note this IP; you’ll use it to connect from your PC.
If you’re curious about advanced Termux networking setups, check out my posts on network security tips and network security for small businesses.
Step 3: Connect from Your PC
On your PC, you can use an SSH client like PuTTY (Windows) or the terminal (Linux/macOS). To test the connection, run:
ssh username@ANDROID_IP
Replace username with your Termux username (usually your device name) and ANDROID_IP with the IP from Step 2. If everything works, you’ll see a Termux shell prompt on your PC.
Step 4: Sync Files Using Rsync
Now comes the magic part. Suppose you want to sync your Android /sdcard/Documents folder to your PC C:Backup directory. Run this command from your PC terminal:
rsync -avz username@ANDROID_IP:/sdcard/Documents/ /path/to/PC/Backup/
This command will copy all files and folders efficiently. The -avz flags ensure the transfer is archived, verbose, and compressed. You can also set up a reverse sync from PC to Android using a similar command.
Step 5: Automate the Sync
Manually running commands every time can be tedious. You can create a simple script on your PC or Android to automate syncing. For example, a basic script could be:
#!/bin/bash
rsync -avz username@ANDROID_IP:/sdcard/Documents/ ~/Backup/
Save it and schedule it using cron on Linux or Task Scheduler on Windows for regular updates. This approach ensures your files stay synchronized automatically.
Step 6: Keep Your Setup Secure
Wireless syncing exposes your devices to the network, so security is critical. Always use strong passwords for SSH, consider key-based authentication, and avoid public networks. For more advanced security tips, read cybersecurity for small companies and internet security practices.
Additionally, monitoring suspicious activity is smart. Tools like MaxPhisher in Termux (educational use only) can help you understand phishing risks when working with networked devices.
Bonus: Sync Over the Internet
If you want to sync files even when your devices aren’t on the same local network, you can use port forwarding with Ngrok in Termux. This creates a secure tunnel from your PC to Android, keeping files private while syncing remotely.
Wrapping Up
Wireless file syncing with Termux is surprisingly simple once you get the hang of it. It keeps your files local, secure, and easy to manage. Combine this setup with strong network practices and optional VPN protection to maximize privacy.
For more Termux projects, check out my quick Termux projects guide and see how you can take your Android automation skills even further.
Start syncing smarter today, ditch the cables, and keep your data safe!