How long does sync data is stored?
Hi, I tried Googling this but found no result so I decided to ask here.
Until recently, I did not use computer for almost half year. I set up a new computer and use Firefox Sync to retrieve my old data back. Surprisingly, no data came out, so I guessed my data has already been wiped out.
I did this before when transferring my old computer to new computer, I just need to sign in and all data including with addons are installed after that but this time I got no data.
Even though the main purpose is for syncing, I thought it can be used as backup as well. It would be great if Firefox states how long the data will be stored. I found no explanation in the firefox sync page.
In the other side, I also use Google Chrome for alternative browser. When I sign in there, all my data are retrieved.
All Replies (4)
On September 30 of this year, Mozilla discontinued the old sync system and replaced it with a new sync system. Active users were prompted to update their sync system, but if you have not used that computer for a while, you would have missed the prompt.
All data stored on the old sync servers has been deleted to protect user privacy and security. Therefore, your data has been deleted from our servers and cannot be retrieved from a new Firefox browser.
For more information on the new sync system, please view one of these articles:
In order to sync your data, you would need to access the original PC that you are trying to receive data from and setup a new sync account on that Firefox browser.
Sorry for any inconvenience.
Wesley Branton said
On September 30 of this year, Mozilla discontinued the old sync system and replaced it with a new sync system. Active users were prompted to update their sync system, but if you have not used that computer for a while, you would have missed the prompt. All data stored on the old sync servers has been deleted to protect user privacy and security. Therefore, your data has been deleted from our servers and cannot be retrieved from a new Firefox browser. For more information on the new sync system, please view one of these articles: In order to sync your data, you would need to access the original PC that you are trying to receive data from and setup a new sync account on that Firefox browser. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Hi, I already use the new sync system, the one with firefox account right?
I did not use the account from around April/May to September this year. After I log the account to the new computer, all my data were gone..
I just want to know how long the data is stored so I can prepare for another transfer later if needed.
Thanks for the reply..
Weren't you able to restore any data like bookmarks?
Note that changing the password of the Sync account will wipe all data.
Also note that history and saved form data may expire after a few months (open tab expire even quicker).
Sync isn't designed to be used as a way to backup data on a remote server, so it is best to backup your personal data locally.
cor-el said
Weren't you able to restore any data like bookmarks? Note that changing the password of the Sync account will wipe all data. Also note that history and saved form data may expire after a few months (open tab expire even quicker). Sync isn't designed to be used as a way to backup data on a remote server, so it is best to backup your personal data locally.
All my data were gone, including the bookmarks. I did not change the password, I made sure to use 'Sync now' before.
I used to use FEBE for backing up and transfering data between my old and new computers but stopped after Firefox introduced the sync function.
Now that I know the data can be wiped by Mozilla, I just want to know the duration the data will be stored so that I may save time in the future for transferring data instead of using FEBE to restore one by one.
So anyone know or someone from Mozilla know? I can't find the information anywhere.
Thanks :)