Automatic Syncing Using Dropbox

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Also known as “syncing to the cloud”, this amazing feature allows you to keep your Macs, Windows, and iOS devices in sync at all times, even when they are running on different networks. Wanna join in the fun? Keep reading!

1. Upgrade to Latest 1Password

Mac users, open 1Password and click 1Password > Check for Updates.

Windows users, run 1Password and click Help > Check for New Version.

2. Configure Your Desktop to Use Dropbox

To allow your iOS device to find your 1Password data file, your desktop needs to store its data file in Dropbox.

If you are already using Dropbox to sync your 1Password data between your Macs and/or PCs, you have already completed this step. If you are not yet syncing with Dropbox, take a look at Macworld’s great video about using 1Password for Mac and Dropbox together. If you prefer written instructions, we’ve got that, too. Please see Configuring Dropbox on Mac or Configuring Dropbox on Windows.

NOTE: Currently, you cannot sync your iOS devices to Dropbox without first configuring 1Password on your desktop to use Dropbox. This limitation may be removed in a future release.

3. Allow Dropbox Syncing to Complete

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It is very important to allow Dropbox to finish syncing all your files before continuing! Click on the Dropbox icon and ensure it says “All files up to date” before proceeding.

4. Upgrade to the Latest 1Password on iOS

To check for available updates, launch the App Store on your iOS device and select the Updates tab at the bottom.

5. Configure Your iOS Device

If this is the first time you’re using 1Password on your iOS device, create a new database on your iPhone / iPod touch or iPad before setting up Dropbox sync.

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Once you've done this, or if you've already been using 1Password, tap _More > Settings_ to view the Settings screen. On the iPad, you'll find the Settings icon at the bottom of the sidebar. Tap the Sync option.

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Select Dropbox from the available sync options

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Toggle the slider to enable Dropbox syncing.

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Syncing requires 1Password password on your device if 1Password is not already unlocked. To enable fully automatic syncing, store your password in the secure storage provided by iOS.

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You will then be prompted to enter your Dropbox credentials. Enter the same email address and password that you used to setup Dropbox.

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You will then be prompted to enter the Master Password that you used to secure your 1Password data on your PC or Mac. If you used the same password as you used on Dropbox or your iOS device, it will be used automatically.

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1Password will now begin downloading your items showing them one by one. During this time you can review your items, edit them, and in iOS 4, even switch apps while 1Password continues to sync in the background for a limited time.

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The Dropbox Sync screen will then report the Sync is completed. The "Sync Now" button allows manual syncing, but it is usually unnecessary because every local change and launch of the app triggers a sync with Dropbox.

6. Have Fun!

We hope you love “syncing to the cloud” as much as we do! Keeping your Macs, Windows, and iOS devices in sync at all times will be a blessing that keeps on giving. Enjoy!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  1. I never used Dropbox. Where do I start? You can register for a free Dropbox account at the Dropbox web site. Also, Macworld created a great video about using 1Password and Dropbox together.
  2. Do I have to be always connected to internet to use my data with Dropbox? No, it is stored on each device where you use 1Password, whether that’s a Mac, a PC running Windows, an Android device, or an iOS device. Dropbox is used to sync changes back to all your other devices from the one on which you make your changes. If you don’t have an Internet connection, 1Password will sync your changes when you do; until then, you will have the latest version of your data on the device you’re using.
  3. Is there a specific top-level Dropbox folder name or path that the data file must be in for the iPhone app to find it? No. All you need to do is start the latest version of 1Password on your Desktop and it will write out a โ€œpointerโ€ file to tell the iOS devices where to find the data file.
  4. Do I need to turn off Wi-Fi syncing on my iPhone? Yes, but 1Password will automatically disable that for you when you enable Dropbox syncing.
  5. I also have an iPod Touch. Can I have all of my devices sync to the same Dropbox keychain? Absolutely!! Add as many devices as you want!
  6. When does sync occur on iOS? Syncing will start automatically when you start 1Password (after unlocking) and when you make a change to an item. We’re evaluating how to run the sync more often without compromising on battery life.
  7. What will happen if I change the same item in multiple places at the same time? A conflict copy of the item will be created. On Mac you will be presented with the conflict resolution screen that will let you choose the best copy.
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