FreeFileSync

If you want to back up multiple files, you may need to place two explorer windows side by side and compare their contents, to see if certain files exist in both folders, if they are older or newer and so on. A file synchronization software can relieve you from this tedious task. If you compare two or more folders with FreeFileSync, you will spot any differences right away. You can choose between different synchronization methods, decide how to handle conflicts and much more.

As the name suggests, the software is free. Furthermore, you will not encounter any restricted functions, ads or nagging reminders to upgrade to a payed version. It takes only a few seconds to have FreeFileSync up and running and you can decide whether to install it the traditional way or as a portable application.

Folders can be loaded on separate panels, for a side by side comparison. It is also possible to load multiple pairs of folders and set up different comparison and synchronization modes for each pair. The application is capable of comparing files by time and size or by content. You may select one of these methods and choose how to handle symbolic links on a separate window.

When you click the Compare option, in the upper left corner of the interface, FreeFileSync will display the contents of the selected folders right away. Compared files are aligned automatically, so you can spot any differences much faster. If an item exists in a single folder, its corresponding entry will be blank.

The application displays a series of icons between the files to let you know which files are identical or not. By selecting different symbols, in the same area, you can decide to copy individual files from one side to another, to ignore or delete them. The available synchronization methods can be found on a separate window. A two way synchronization will make your folders identical. If you opt for a mirror synchronization, the application will make the folder on the right identical to the one on the left, even if it has to erase one or more files. With the Update method selected, FreeFileSync will copy new or modified files from left to right.

FreeFileSync allows you to customize your own synchronization method in the same window. You can set up different rules, by selecting Copy, Delete or Ignore icons, next to certain conditions, like "file exists on left side only" or "left side is newer". The synchronization settings window contains a few more options, for displaying or ignoring handling errors and for selecting a deletion method.