Sync between your devices

PromptBranch syncs your library directly between your own desktop devices on a local network or VPN. It does not require an account or a cloud copy of your library. Changes remain saved locally while a device is offline and catch up when paired devices can reach each other.

Pair two devices

1. On both devices, open Settings → Sync and enable Device-to-device sync. On macOS, allow the Local Network permission when asked.
2. On one device, select Show pairing code.
3. On the other device, enter that code under Add a device and select the nearby device.
4. If the devices are connected through a VPN or do not appear nearby, use Pair by address and enter the other device's address and listening port.

PromptBranch chooses a listening port the first time sync starts and keeps using it. You can see or change it under Settings → Sync → This device. Changing the port restarts sync networking; use a port from 1024 to 65535.

Each pairing code confirms the other device's identity. After pairing, PromptBranch connects only to that saved device unless you choose to forget it.

All paired devices must use compatible sync data. Upgrade every paired desktop or mobile device to a version that supports protocol 4 and sync schema 13 before sync can resume; mixed-version devices are rejected before pairing or applying changes.

What syncs

Prompts, versions, variations, tags, collections, notes, ratings, run records, and share records sync. Changes made through the desktop app, CLI, or MCP server all flow into the same library and are included.

Your API keys, app settings, and local model catalog stay on each device. A paired device can manage a shared link because share revocation tokens sync with the share record.

Conflicts and status

Concurrent additions are retained. When two devices change the same small prompt detail, PromptBranch chooses one consistent result and keeps the prompt history available for review. Each device's sync footer shows whether it is synced, syncing, waiting for devices, offline, or needs attention.

Select the footer or return to Settings → Sync to see paired devices, run Sync now, rename this device, or forget a device. Forgetting a device stops automatic reconnection; pair it again if you want to restore access.

If pairing fails

• Upgrade every paired desktop or mobile device; an older sync protocol or data schema cannot pair or resume sync with a current device.
• Confirm sync is enabled on both devices and re-open the pairing code.
• Check that both devices can reach each other on the same network or VPN.
• On macOS, check that PromptBranch has Local Network permission.
• Use Pair by address when network discovery is unavailable.
• If a firewall is enabled, allow PromptBranch to accept incoming connections on the listening port shown in Settings → Sync. Firewall controls vary by operating system and network; allow only the private networks or VPNs you trust.
• If PromptBranch says the port is unavailable, choose another port in Settings → Sync and use that new port for manual pairing.