# Nearby Sync

Nearby Sync allows devices on the same local network to exchange clipboard content directly, bypassing external cloud servers. This local-only transmission offers low latency, real-time response, and maximum data privacy.

## Best-Fit Scenarios

*   Copy text on a desktop computer and paste it on your phone immediately.
*   Transfer temporary text clips frequently between devices on the same office or home network.
*   Meet strict security compliance requiring no data retention in cloud storage.

## Setup and Usage

:::steps
:::step{title="Enable Nearby Sync"}

On both devices you want to sync, go to Octoclip **Settings** -> **Sync Settings** -> toggle **Nearby Sync** on.

:::
:::step{title="Discover and pair devices"}

Ensure both devices are actively looking for peers. Go to **Settings** -> **Sync Settings** -> locate the target device name in the **Nearby Devices** list, initiate pairing, and confirm the connection request on the target device.

:::
:::step{title="Send a test clip"}

**Success sign:** Copy a short text snippet on device A. The clip should immediately appear in the clipboard history list of device B.
:::
:::

## Requirements and Limits

*   **Same Local Network:** Devices must be on the same local network subnet (typically connected to the same Wi-Fi router).
*   **Local Network Permissions:** Mobile OSes (especially iOS) must be granted the "Local Network" access permission.
*   **Firewall Rules:** System firewalls must allow Octoclip to open incoming/outgoing ports for local socket communication.
*   **Connection Limits:**
    *   **Free License:** Supports connecting to at most **1** device at a time.
    *   **Paid License (Standard/Plus):** Unlocks concurrent multi-device pairing connections.

> [!INFO] Desktop Builds Do Not Require Bonjour
> Since v1.9.5 (2026-02-11), Windows and macOS clients use a built-in native discovery protocol. You do not need to install Bonjour on Windows unless you are running older clients or legacy network configurations.

> [!WARNING] Enterprise Wi-Fi and AP Isolation
> Many corporate Wi-Fi setups and public hotspots (e.g., hotels, airports) enforce **AP Isolation (Access Point Isolation)** for safety. This prevents wireless devices on the same network from communicating with one another. If you cannot find your device, try pairing using a mobile hotspot, or switch to [Cloud Sync](/features/cloud-sync).

## Common Issues

:::accordion{multiple}
:::item{label="My nearby devices list is empty"}

1. Confirm Nearby Sync switches are enabled on both devices.
2. Check if a VPN or global proxy client is routing local packets away.
3. Ensure the app has the "Local Network" permission (iOS) or "Location / Nearby Devices" permission (Android).

:::
:::item{label="Devices are paired but clipboard content won't transfer"}

Check your system firewalls (such as Windows Defender or macOS built-in firewall) to ensure they are not blocking incoming connection requests from Octoclip. Try disabling firewalls temporarily to diagnose.
:::
:::

## Related Docs

:::cards{cols=2}
:::card{title="Cloud Sync" icon="lucide.cloud" href="/features/cloud-sync"}
Best for cross-network and long-term multi-device synchronization.

:::
:::card{title="Device Discovery Failed" icon="lucide.wrench" href="/advanced/troubleshooting/device-discovery-failed"}
Detailed network diagnostics for when devices cannot discover each other.
:::
:::

## Still Not Solved

If local sync fails after verifying these steps, please provide the following details when asking for help in the community:

*   **OS & Versions:** (e.g., Device A: Win 11, Device B: Android 13)
*   **Octoclip Version:** 
*   **Wi-Fi Connection:** (confirming both are on the same Wi-Fi)
*   **VPN/Proxy Status:** (enabled/disabled)
*   **Network Type:** (Home Wi-Fi / Enterprise Wi-Fi / Hotspot)