A method and system for performing one-to-many synchronization using a central server and also using downloadable client software. The system includes a central server, e.g., a web server or an enterprise server, that synchronizes with multiple electronic devices including, for example, a personal digital assistant, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a cell phone, a pager, etc. Before the data synchronization takes place, and after the electronic device initiates communication with the server, the server downloads client software to the electronic device. The client software allows the electronic device to perform data synchronization with the server. After the synchronization is complete, the client software may be removed from the electronic device. The server data is located in one place and can be accessed from any location using almost any electronic device and the data can be readily protected. The invention provides geographically independent synchronization for the same device. The invention reduces the amount of metadata required to perform synchronization, eliminates slow synchronizations and also operates on standard or pre-existing data structures. The shared client software technique also reduces software maintenance and administrative issues and is helpful for application service providers (ASPs).