Files Not Recommended for Sync, Back up, or Upload

Learn which file types should be avoided when using Sync, Back up, or Upload in pCloud, why conflicted copies occur, and how to exclude problematic files to ensure smooth transfers.

When using Sync, Back up, or Upload, certain file types may cause issues - especially if they are actively used or frequently updated by your system or applications. 

Why does it happen?

Files that are constantly being modified can lead to conflicted copies during transfer. 

A conflicted copy is an additional version of a file created when multiple changes occur at the same time. These files usually appear with the suffix:

filename.conflicted

File types to avoid

We do not recommend using the following in Sync, Back up, or Upload:

  • .pst and .ost (email data files)
  • .git directories
  • Hidden or system files
  • Browser data
  • Email client data

How to prevent issues

To avoid conflicts, you should exclude these files before starting any Sync, Back up, or Upload process. 

To add exclusions:

  1. Right-click the pCloud Drive icon in the system tray
  2. Go to Settings -> Exclusions
  3. Add the files or folders you want to exclude

Important: 

Exclusions apply to Sync, Back up, and Upload, but only if they are added before starting the process. 

If you have already started Sync, Back up, or Upload

If these file types are already included:

  1. Stop the current Sync or Back up, or cancel the Upload
  2. Delete the affected files from pCloud Drive
  3. Go to Settings -> Exclusions and add them to the exclusion list
  4. Start the process again with the correct files

Recommendation

As a general rule, avoid using files that are actively used, frequently updated, or locked by other applications, as they are more likely to cause conflicts. 

Next article

Low disk space warning in pCloud Drive

Understand why pCloud Drive shows a low disk space warning, how local caching works during file transfers, and how to adjust settings or use alternative upload methods.

Was this article helpful?

Help us improve our documentation. Let us know how we did.