A command labelled Local can be misread as “send my local files.” In WinSCP synchronization, it names the target: changes from the remote directory are applied to the local directory. Translate the selected direction into an ordinary sentence before confirming any changes.

Begin with disposable local and remote practice folders under your control. Put a clearly different test file on each side and retain their original contents. Write down whether this exercise should update the local folder, the remote folder or both.

Read direction and mode as separate choices

Open Commands, Synchronize and inspect the two paths. Local changes only the local target; Remote changes only the remote target. Both permits changes on both sides. Enable Preview changes so the proposed actions appear in a checklist before being applied.

Synchronize files normally transfers source files that are newer, as well as source files missing at the target unless Existing files only is selected. Mirror files can transfer differing source files even when they are older. Deleting target-only files is a separate option; Both does not delete files.

Use a recognisable practice file whose target version is deliberately newer than its source version. Compare the proposed action under Synchronize files and Mirror files without applying both. A newer timestamp is not an instruction to preserve the target when you have chosen a mode intended to make it follow the source.

Approve the listed operations against the written plan

Read the paths and operation for each practice item. Cancel if the checklist would alter the wrong side or remove something that should remain. Correct the direction or mode and generate the preview again instead of relying on memory of an earlier checklist.

Apply only the intended practice changes, then open the affected file at its destination. Confirm that the opposite side remained unchanged where the chosen direction requires it. Keep the source and target identities visible during this check; similar folder names can conceal a reversal.

Before repeating the workflow on real files, verify that remote timestamps are understood correctly and that the selected comparison suits the job. Record the reviewed direction, mode and deletion choice with the task. A synchronization preview is useful only when its proposed changes agree with the actual ownership of the working data.

Sources: WinSCP documentation.