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Best Free Folder Synchronization UtilityFile synchronization utilities are designed to help you keep updated copies of files or folders in two or more different locations, such as different computers, network drives, USB drives, online storage, etc. While a file sync utility could be used as a simple backup tool (called one-way syncing), its real power lies in keeping two sets of identical working files, such as keeping current versions of the same data files on both your home computer and office computer (two-way syncing). File sync utilities keep track of which files you create or change, or even delete in one location, and can create, change and even delete those same files in the other location. There are two easy first choices here. The first is SyncToy for Windows XP SP2 or Vista. This program is more than a syncing program; it can copy, move, rename, and delete files between any number of folders and even computers. The program operates on the principal of pre-defined folder pairs. You define and name these pairs and then when you want to perform a task, you recall one of these pairs and carry out the operation. Syncing can be in either direction and covers all options from complete sync to updating newer files only. SyncToy can also keep track of files you rename and rename those in the sync destination. Overwritten files in the destination can be saved in the recycle bin, in case you need the older version. It is a well rounded utility, with almost every feature you could ever want in a sync utility. In my opinion the only major things that it lacks, is direct support for ftp, and a portable version. (Note: SyncToy requires V2.0 of Microsoft's .NET framework.) If you need a synchronization solution that also works for older Windows versions, has support for ftp, or includes a portable version, I recommend Allway Sync. It is a very capable program with a great selection of features. It is very easy to use "right out of the box" with a clear-cut and simple interface, yet it will allow for fine tuning of your synchronization jobs through, sync rules, inclusion and exclusion filters, versioning policies and more. One nice feature is its ability to detect and begin sync jobs the moment a removable device is connected. When it comes to certain aspects of file tracking, SyncToy probably has the edge, but Allway Sync's ability to upload files to online storage through ftp, and the existence of two different portable versions, including one that supports U3 technology, makes it first-rate option as well. The free version of Allway Sync has a limitation that restricts it to synchronizing no more that 20,000 files in a 30 day period, but this is probably more than enough for the average user. Another highly recommended program is 2brightspark's SyncBack Freeware. It works for Windows 98 through XP (only partial Vista support) and has a number of features that SyncToy lacks. One very nice feature is its ability to sync to a remote FTP server. It also supports using zip compression so the files take up less space on removable media. 2brightspark also has a commercial version of the program, SyncBackSE, which has many additional features, and full Vista compatibility. However for many average users the freeware version will prove sufficient. SyncToy Allway Sync SyncBack
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