Saturday, October 14, 2023

How to share & synchronize work on Windows, macOS, and Linux at the same time

Why limit yourself to just one major operating system when you can work with the same apps and files seamlessly across three?
These tips also apply when working with different systems all running Windows or Linux.
"The easiest way to work across platforms is to use an online office suite, such as Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoho Office or the iCloud versions of Apple's Pages, Numbers, and Keynote applications.
That's not your only option, however. Microsoft Office is available for both Windows and macOS (plus iPadOS), and can conveniently synchronize documents via OneDrive. As a free alternative, LibreOffice also works on the Mac, PC, and Linux, and integrates with cloud storage services like Google Drive to simplify managing and accessing your documents. "

"... you may prefer to set up your own WebDAV server for convenient document storage and sharing. This can reside on a commercial web host or on your own hardware – an easy way to set it up is via the Nextcloud collaboration framework, which is included in the DietPi OS distribution for the Raspberry Pi and other single-board computers."

"When you're working across multiple devices, the most fundamental requirement is retaining access to all your files. You could use a cloud provider like Box or OneDrive, but these only offer limited space unless you pay for a premium service. 

You may prefer therefore to provision your own centralized storage across your local network, by repurposing an old computer as a file server, or as a NAS using TrueNAS Core. This gives you ongoing control and oversight over your shared storage, and complete freedom to expand it over time."

"Sharing peripherals between operating systems:
If you're using multiple computers on the same desk, you'll want to share peripherals where possible. ...
Switching to a multiplatform keyboard like the Logitech K780 can help. This wireless keyboard has combined Start/Alt, and Alt/Cmd keys to suit different platforms, and can instantly switch between three separate Bluetooth hosts at the touch of a function key – so you can easily share it between PC, a Mac and a tablet. The Logitech M720 mouse can likewise pair with three devices and switch between them as required.
...
 If your PC is running a Professional edition of Windows 10 or 11, you can use Microsoft's Remote Desktop tool to access it from the Mac desktop. Connect using your PC's IP address, and your Windows username and password."

"... another tool you can try is Chrome Remote Desktop, which is a free add-on for Chrome-based browsers. Install it on both devices. Once installed, you'll be prompted to give each computer a unique name, and create a PIN of six or more digits to secure it. Now when you visit the web page on one machine, you'll be able to access and use the other one – as long as they're both logged into the same Google account."




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