Syncing Across Devices

Keep your vault up-to-date everywhere

Overview

Your Vault syncs automatically across all your devices. Changes made on one device appear on all others within seconds.

How Sync Works

  1. You make a change (add, edit, or delete an item)
  2. The change is encrypted on your device
  3. Encrypted data syncs to Heimlane servers
  4. Other devices download and decrypt the update
  5. All devices show the same vault contents

Important: Only encrypted data travels over the network. Your master password never leaves your device.

Automatic Sync

Sync happens automatically when you:

  • Log in to your vault
  • Open the browser extension
  • Make any changes
  • Return to the app after being away

Manual Sync

To force a sync immediately:

Browser Extension:

  • Click the Vault icon > Settings (gear) > Sync > Sync Now

Web Vault:

  • Click your profile icon > Sync Vault

Mobile App:

  • Pull down on the vault list to refresh
  • Or go to Settings > Sync > Sync Now

Desktop App:

  • File > Sync Vault
  • Or press Ctrl+Shift+S (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+S (Mac)

Sync Conflicts

If you edit the same item on two devices while offline:

  • The most recent change wins
  • No data is lost - previous versions may be in revision history

To avoid conflicts:

  • Ensure you’re online when making changes
  • Sync before editing shared items

Troubleshooting

Problem: Changes not appearing on other devices

Solutions:

  1. Check your internet connection
  2. Try manual sync on both devices
  3. Log out and back in
  4. Check if you’re logged into the same account

Problem: Sync is slow

Solutions:

  1. Large attachments take longer to sync
  2. Check your internet speed
  3. Too many items? Consider organizing into folders

Problem: Offline access not working

Solutions:

  1. Enable offline access in app settings
  2. Open the app while online first to cache data
  3. Some features require internet (e.g., sharing)

Offline Access

When offline, you can still:

  • View cached vault items
  • Copy passwords
  • Use autofill (with cached data)

When you reconnect:

  • Changes queue up and sync automatically
  • Any conflicts are resolved (latest wins)

Data Usage

Vault uses minimal data:

  • Initial sync: Varies by vault size
  • Ongoing syncs: Only changed items (a few KB)
  • Attachments: Download on demand (can be configured)

Tips

  • Keep your apps updated for best sync performance
  • Log in on new devices while on reliable Wi-Fi
  • Use the same email across all devices
  • Enable biometric unlock for faster access without re-entering master password
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