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Sync Not Working Between Devices

Steps to fix device-to-device sync issues and get your data synchronized.

Quick Fix

Before detailed troubleshooting, verify these basics:

  • Both devices have Lova open
  • Both devices are on the same WiFi network
  • Devices are paired (Settings → Sync → Paired Devices)

1 Network Issues

Some networks block the discovery protocols Lova uses:

Corporate/enterprise networks

Often block device discovery

Hotel WiFi

Isolated guest networks

Coffee shop networks

AP isolation enabled

VPN connections

Routes traffic differently

💡

Home Network

Sync works best on home networks. If you're away from home, use QR code pairing or backup file transfer.

2 Check Device Pairing

Verify your devices are properly paired:

  1. 1 Go to Settings → Sync → Paired Devices
  2. 2 Look for your other device in the list
  3. 3 If not listed, re-pair using QR code method below

3 Firewall & VPN Settings

On desktop, firewalls or VPNs may block sync:

macOS

Allow Lova in System Preferences → Security → Firewall

Windows

Allow through Windows Firewall when prompted

VPN Active?

Temporarily disable VPN on both devices during sync

4 Manual Sync Options

If automatic sync won't work, use these alternatives:

QR Code Sync

Direct encrypted connection between devices

Backup File Transfer

Export and import encrypted backup

QR Code Sync Steps

  1. 1 On device A: Settings → Sync → Show QR Code
  2. 2 On device B: Settings → Sync → Scan QR Code
  3. 3 This establishes a direct encrypted connection

5 Re-Pairing Devices

If all else fails, remove and re-add the pairing:

  1. 1 On both devices: Settings → Sync → Paired Devices
  2. 2 Remove the other device from the list
  3. 3 Re-pair using QR code method
⚠️

Data Priority

When re-pairing, choose which device has the "correct" data. That device's data will be synced to the other.

Still Not Working?

If you've tried everything:

  • Use the backup file method (always works)
  • Report the issue on GitHub with details about your network setup

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