Beyond Sync Pro

#86

#85, Flattop, SyncToy 2 permits editing actions and all options of folder pairs, as well as renaming them. It automatically supports drive letters which change, as can happen with external devices. As for website passwords and thumb drives, why not just use a portable password manager? Sticky Password has a portable version, and its password protector and on-screen keyboard provide you with some protection when used on different computers.

Reply | Comment by Fubar – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#85

Beyond Sync Pro is awesome. Wow. how can you complaint about a free program that can back up your entire drive to anywhere?
tried it, love it

Reply | Comment by Craig – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#84

wether i wanted this or not is not so important
what is important is it being delivered to my imbox on the day and for the 24 hours in question
it arrived in todays along with notefrog which i will give a miss also
keep up the good work GAOTD

Reply | Comment by beejay – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#83

#24 "TK"

The limitation figures that you reported for "GoodSync" (http://www.goodsync.com/), are wrong and wrong by a huge amount. You do not get anything close to ten thousand transfers per month. The figure for transfers per month is not mentioned in any of the readme files or help files that come with Goodsync. I have used (tried to use) the free version of goodsync off and on during a period of time lasting approximately three years. Being somewhat of an optimist, I keep hoping that this newest version of Goodsync is actually going to work. You can tell from what I have already written that it never does.

Normally I synchronize passwords used on the various websites on to thumb drives. I do not come close to visiting one hundred NEW websites between my resynchronization of the thumb drives. Using two thumb drives with files synced between the two just the day, starts becoming a problem on the third day that have tried to use the goodsync product. Most of the time but I am synchronizing the two thumb drives I am synchronizing at the most 10 to 12 file names. The first and second synchronization has always worked correctly. The third synchronization, which it contained the fewest new files, stumbles and refuses to run giving me an error message telling about the limitations of the free version of Goodsync. As I have explained, I have never gotten close to the limit.

The Microsoft SyncToy program has one major shortcoming. Once that you have set up the two entities that you want to synchronize your stuck with that profile. You cannot edit a profile in SyncToy.

The synchronization programs that I currently have on my desktop and use every few days include Microsoft SyncToy, Allway Sync, and Sync Now. They all do a good job at synchronizing folders on my computer. Today's GOTD offering, "Beyond Sync Pro" likewise is a good performer.

Reply | Comment by Flattop – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#82

doesn't Microsoft provides a freeware replacement?

Reply | Comment by brownbear – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#81

I used Microsoft's free SyncToy v1.4 2 years ago which had good features at that time (but not all I needed) and then GAOTD gave away Allway Sync earlier this year. I used it so much that I paid for 2 licenses of the Pro version and have since been using Allway Sync. I love the features and updates are frequent. MS SyncToy v2 seems to have improved now but Allway Sync is my all time favorite and does a good job!

Reply | Comment by Ash – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#80

I have been using SyncToy from Microsoft (free) for almost a year. Like it because it's fast and simple. Two problems with SyncToy are time zone and daylight saving time which it can't handle very well. Downloaded Beyond Sync since morning and like it so far. it's got more options to play with as well but haven't explore that yet. For me, I just needed something fast, can handle time zone (as I travel alot) and daylight saving time.

Reply | Comment by sea – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#79

SyncToy was great when I used it but it couldn't handle the large (read gigantic) file structures I work with. SyncBack by 2BrightSparks is what I use now. I used the freeware for a while and loved it so much I registered it even though I don't use much of the Pro features. It was just that good.

Reply | Comment by TheBlindBat – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#78

Another program like FolderShare is syncplicty.I think new generation sync utilities like everthing else moving towards web based platforms i.e files are stored on the web as well as synced betwixt machines.

Reply | Comment by ken – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#77

If you want to copy and sync files you probably can't do better that Robocopy, which is included in Vista and Windows 2003 Server.

Robocopy will copy all associated access control lists (ACLs), will resume after a network outage. Other features include file mirroring and drive mapping between file shares on two different computers and a whole lot more.
It may be a bit advanced for the average user but there is a tutorial at

http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/window-on-windows/?p=777

and a video at
http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/itdojo/?p=187.

Reply | Comment by DavidC – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#76

It seams pretty good to me. The thing is I think there may be alot of free programs that do the saim thing.

Reply | Comment by applefox – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#75

Review on Beyond Sync Pro is now updated at GOTDReviews.info to include mini-reviews on the following free alternative software:

SyncToy2
Foldershare
Synkron
SyncBack
Allway Sync

Verdict:
If you want to be automatically sync your folders across multiple computers (that do not have to be on your network), want to be able to access your computer files from different computers, or would like to share your files with other people, try Foldershare.

If you just want to do simple syncing between folders and do not mind not being able to schedule syncing, try SyncToy2.

If you have a need to make backups of your files easily, and regularly, or need to make copies of the same files and place them in two different locations and would like to easily set up syncs at scheduled times, or need real time sync, get Beyond Sync Pro while it is free.

If you need to sync files from your computer to FTP, or other places, try Allway Sync - just remember Allway Sync is limited in uses.

If you need to sync files from your computer to FTP and other locations, but will go over the Allway Sync freeware limit and are willing to spend the time to learn how to work the software, try SyncBack.

Reply | Comment by Ashraf – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#74

I tried this in the previous giveaway of it and in the end I removed it and went with the Allway Sync and have been EXTREMELY pleased with it since, even better, its FREE..

Just my 3 cents.

Wojo

Reply | Comment by Tony Wojo – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#73

I really think theres better options to do data backups with then todays offer so I'm passing. I already have "Titan backup". "Second Copy 7", (which unfortunately doesn't sync like it claims so I have to stay on top of it) & the one that I prefer comes bundled free with a One Touch 4, external hard drive by "Seagate".
It's sync capabilities are unmatched in my experience & I'm a backup freak! It deletes, updated, backups compressed files & knows when an existing file has been modified & saved.
Too bad thats the best thing about a "Seagate" external hard drive. I've had issues with mine since the second week after I received it. At least their guarantee replacement service is good! I seem to have a good one now that I'm on my second replacement.
The bottom line is, todays offer seems to be weak & for some, it has registration issues but that seems to be the norm for some visitors! If you need one, try it, if not, don't waste your time. It's certainly not a top of the line sync/backup program. Just get everything copied & create a system restore point before you try this one. It never hurts to be safe & safes always better then sorry.

Reply | Comment by who said that – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#72

One word, a compound word; and it's free too:

"SyncToy'...

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=E0FC1154-C975-4814-9649-CCE41AF06EB7&displaylang=en

SyncToy works well for us here, as i have two pc's One with XP (SP3) and the other with Vista H.P.(SP1)... I synchronize the picture directories between my two PC's Which are ethernet connected to DSL line, and SyncToy does a fabulous and swift job of sync'ing all of them. It is able to sync with other various devices as well, so long as they are on Your network. not only is it a top performer, it also has a nice price tag -=8^) Yes, that and it is truely free, free of any malwares adwares and bugs. Well all software has tiny bugs but this one works well and does as stated like a charm. Hope this helps, Enjoy Your PC time.

StanDP. "Avid PC Enthusiast Since 1982..." ~{Thanks Eric H.!}~
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.
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~(___)~CheerzZZz...!-=+8^)~-

Reply | Comment by StanDP. – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#71

Thank you for another chance to acquire this good sync utility, GOTD and Fevosoft. This program was previously offered here on June 11 this year. Therefore, readers can find useful information in the comments on that date here. For your convenience, this is my comment from then (#12):

"Thank you, GOTD and Fevosoft, for offering this synchronization utility. I have been looking for a good free sync tool for a long time, as my blog readers know. I recommended Allway Sync in post #27, and followed up in post #28. However, the free version of Allway Sync limits the number of files it processes in a month (as does the free version of today’s giveaway, Beyond Sync), so I started searching again. I described the features I look for in a syncing utility in post #58. I also have been trying some Web-hosted sync services, such as Microsoft FolderShare. [New note 11/4/08: I am now very happily using Dropbox for syncing, as described in my last post at #76.]

"Today’s giveaway looks falls short of Allway Sync’s functionality, and has a slightly less appealing interface. However, it compares well to most of the free sync tools I’ve seen.

"Beyond Sync installed easily and smoothly on my XP machine (I’ll try the Vista machine later). [New note 11/4/08: It worked fine.] The wizard for setting up synchronization tasks is relatively clear and easy to follow. Its advantages include: real-time synchronization whenever a file is changed, plus a capable scheduler; inclusion and exclusion filters; running multiple sync tasks in one go; backing up to a zip file; and even the ability to change the file name case during copying (though I’m not sure how useful this is).

"However, Beyond Sync has some serious flaws, too. Among them are useful functions that I have found in other programs, such as: In bidirectional syncing, there is no option to prevent deleting files that are absent on one side (this can be dangerous, as commenter #10 seems to have discovered); there is no versioning function, nor backup of deleted files; there is no option to ignore one-hour differences in time stamps; and — this is a biggie — you cannot change the sync actions shown in the preview window. It also does not start syncing when a flash drive is plugged into the USB port, which would have been a nice feature.

"In conclusion, today’s giveaway can be very useful to someone looking for a free sync tool, though I have found freeware sync tools that compare quite well, namely DSynchronize and JFileSync. Someone willing to pay for a really good, unlimited sync tool should consider Allway Sync or what appears to be its cousin, GoodSync."

The brief release notes on the Fevosoft site do not indicate that any of my complaints have been addressed in this new version of Beyond Sync.

I hope this is helpful.

[GOTD moderators: I posted this comment less than an hour after the giveaway's availability, and then twice more during the day, and my comment never appeared. What gives?]

Thank you for another chance to acquire this good sync utility, GOTD and Fevosoft. This program was previously offered here on June 11 this year. Therefore, readers can find useful information in the comments on that date <a href="http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/beyond-sync/#comments" rel="nofollow">here</a>. For your convenience, this is my comment from then (#12):

"Thank you, GOTD and Fevosoft, for offering this synchronization utility. I have been looking for a good free sync tool for a long time, as my blog readers know. I recommended Allway Sync in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2007/07/27-sync-or-swim.html" rel="nofollow">#27</a>, and followed up in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2007/07/28-syncing-spirits.html" rel="nofollow">#28</a>. However, the free version of Allway Sync limits the number of files it processes in a month (as does the free version of today’s giveaway, Beyond Sync), so I started searching again. I described the features I look for in a syncing utility in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2008/02/58-syncing-honeymoon-is-over.html" rel="nofollow">#58</a>. I also have been trying some Web-hosted sync services, such as Microsoft FolderShare. [New note 11/4/08: I am now very happily using Dropbox for syncing, as described in my last post at <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2008/10/76-what-i-did-last-summer.html" rel="nofollow">#76</a>.]

"Today’s giveaway looks falls short of Allway Sync’s functionality, and has a slightly less appealing interface. However, it compares well to most of the free sync tools I’ve seen.

"Beyond Sync installed easily and smoothly on my XP machine (I’ll try the Vista machine later). [New note 11/4/08: It worked fine.] The wizard for setting up synchronization tasks is relatively clear and easy to follow. Its advantages include: real-time synchronization whenever a file is changed, plus a capable scheduler; inclusion and exclusion filters; running multiple sync tasks in one go; backing up to a zip file; and even the ability to change the file name case during copying (though I’m not sure how useful this is).

"However, Beyond Sync has some serious flaws, too. Among them are useful functions that I have found in other programs, such as: In bidirectional syncing, there is no option to prevent deleting files that are absent on one side (this can be dangerous, as commenter #10 seems to have discovered); there is no versioning function, nor backup of deleted files; there is no option to ignore one-hour differences in time stamps; and — this is a biggie — you cannot change the sync actions shown in the preview window. It also does not start syncing when a flash drive is plugged into the USB port, which would have been a nice feature.

"In conclusion, today’s giveaway can be very useful to someone looking for a free sync tool, though I have found freeware sync tools that compare quite well, namely DSynchronize and JFileSync. Someone willing to pay for a really good, unlimited sync tool should consider Allway Sync or what appears to be its cousin, GoodSync."

The brief release notes on the Fevosoft site do not indicate that any of my complaints have been addressed in this new version of Beyond Sync.

I hope this is helpful.

[GOTD moderators: I posted this comment less than an hour after the giveaway's availability, and then twice more during the day, and my comment never appeared. What gives?]

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Reply | Comment by JonathansToolBarAndGrill – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#70

P.S.
I looked at WinXPs Sync program it didn't work for me at all. And I also tried using Vista Sync and it was a bust for this kind of syncronization.

Reply | Comment by Candace O'Shea – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#69

It seems like a pretty good program to me. I have GoodSync at home and was wondering if I could bring it to work on the same license. But this program is similar though not as sophisticated. It has some of the same features. When using, make sure you study the methods of syncing available and choose the right one for your project. Failing to do so could be disasterous. Their is one method that deletes files that you deleted on the other side. I am going to experiment with that, by creating files on one side and deleting a file I don't need and see what happens to the created file and the matching file of the one I deleted using that setting.

As for the error code, I got one after the second time I went on my computer and made a change, while the BS was still open. This is a good idea by the way, run the Preview on your chosen folders and look down all the way. I had one folder where the name was all caps and on the other side it wasn't. It is case sensitive. It would have copied the Edge folder to my USB stick and the EDGE folder to my harddrive. So I would have had two Edge folders. But my first change was a file that didn't belong in the folder it was in. I went to my computer moved it manually then ran Preview again. That was OK, but the Folder name change was too much for it, so when I ran Preview after that, an error message. I closed BS and restarted and it worked fine.

You probably want to not sync desktop.ini or GSData (a folder my USB stick makes that backs up files. Something like that you will want to exclude, that is easy to do.

What I can't find is a way of naming the Task. It is called New Task 1, that would be fine I guess if I only had one task. But when you have more then you need descriptive names. I haven't checked help, though I am surprised I need to, since it should be pretty intuitive, like right click on the name and option rename, but that isn't there.

All in all if you are an average user, it should work fine for you. If you have very complicated syncs that need to be done, you might want something a lot more professional and with more file manageability. It would be nice to have been able to make those changes I needed to make right there in the preview tree for one.
This is a thumbs up.

It seems like a pretty good program to me. I have GoodSync at home and was wondering if I could bring it to work on the same license. But this program is similar though not as sophisticated. It has some of the same features. When using, make sure you study the methods of syncing available and choose the right one for your project. Failing to do so could be disasterous. Their is one method that deletes files that you deleted on the other side. I am going to experiment with that, by creating files on one side and deleting a file I don't need and see what happens to the created file and the matching file of the one I deleted using that setting.

As for the error code, I got one after the second time I went on my computer and made a change, while the BS was still open. This is a good idea by the way, run the Preview on your chosen folders and look down all the way. I had one folder where the name was all caps and on the other side it wasn't. It is case sensitive. It would have copied the Edge folder to my USB stick and the EDGE folder to my harddrive. So I would have had two Edge folders. But my first change was a file that didn't belong in the folder it was in. I went to my computer moved it manually then ran Preview again. That was OK, but the Folder name change was too much for it, so when I ran Preview after that, an error message. I closed BS and restarted and it worked fine.

You probably want to not sync desktop.ini or GSData (a folder my USB stick makes that backs up files. Something like that you will want to exclude, that is easy to do.

What I can't find is a way of naming the Task. It is called New Task 1, that would be fine I guess if I only had one task. But when you have more then you need descriptive names. I haven't checked help, though I am surprised I need to, since it should be pretty intuitive, like right click on the name and option rename, but that isn't there.

All in all if you are an average user, it should work fine for you. If you have very complicated syncs that need to be done, you might want something a lot more professional and with more file manageability. It would be nice to have been able to make those changes I needed to make right there in the preview tree for one.
This is a thumbs up.

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Reply | Comment by Candace O'Shea – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#68

Good payware:
1. Araxis Merge (King of the hill!) 2. Beyond Compare (scooter software)
Best freeware:
1. Kdiff3 - requires a bit of getting used to, but it can do 3 way merges and everything.

I think Araxis will handle files that are in use properly. I don't think (but if I'm wrong, someone correct me) Kdiff3 or Beyond compare handle files that are in use...

Reply | Comment by thormj – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#67

only free up the 2 gigs though. sorry. i use it for work files only so this has not been an issue for me.

Reply | Comment by frodo-lives – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#66

syncplicity is what i use. i have vista x64. it installed and works great. you can use either the x32 or x64 install for vista or xp

Reply | Comment by frodo-lives – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#65

#3, Ashraf, you misunderstood my comment #18 which you referenced in your review. The issue isn't whether Beyond Sync Pro can copy .zip files, the issue is whether it can backup to a .zip file, as my comment stated and their website says it can. I can find no way to do so. I was also too gentle in my comment #14 where I said the UI was a bit cumbersome; it's just plain bad.

Reply | Comment by Fubar – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#64

A really excellent piece of software, in my opinion one of the best in its class

Reply | Comment by jim – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#63

I like SyncBack Freeware from 2BrightSparks.

http://www.2brightsparks.com/downloads.html#freeware

Reply | Comment by JamesGT – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#62

BE WARNED:

- Does NOT WARN if opened or locked files could not be synchronized!!!

Sorry, but that means this tool is almost useless:
The worst scenario could become true; you feel safe, because you THINK you copied/synchronized everything - but ONLY after something crashed/went wrong you realize that your data is incomplete or wrong...!

Correct logging and a pop-up, if something went wrong is a MUST for such a tool!

Reply | Comment by (german)werwölfchen – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#61

What's the difference between this software and Titan Backup that has been given away here in the past, or even Comodo Backup?

Reply | Comment by Caffeinated – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#60

Seems kind of like 'Sync Now!' that was given away a month ago.
I decided not to download.
Still, suppose it'll come to use for some people who missed 'Sync Now!'

Reply | Comment by Wbmstr – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#59

The best comparison/sync program I have ever seen is Beyond Compare (No relation to Beyond Sync). Beyond Sync can't hold a candle to BC. The guys at Scooter Software have it down to a science. I've used it at my last two jobs. It does 3 way merging (Pro version) and 2 way merging, sync, folder and file comparison, flags significant and insignificant file changes based on rule sets, syntax highlighting, has plug in support, and is fully scriptable.

If you are looking for free, BC is not it. If you want a wicked comparison/syncing tool, I don't know of a better one. They have a free trial. Plus the latest version has a Windows and Linux build.

http://www.scootersoftware.com

Reply | Comment by Jeff – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#58

Jay,

I do not have an iTouch so I cannot test it out for you, but I imagine that when you plug in the iTouch it is recognized as an external drive on your computer right? If so, I do not see why you should not be able to sync with it.

But please, make a backup of your iTouch files before you try this.

Reply | Comment by Ashraf – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#57

Installation was straightforward although the GAOTD install had to verify online before it would run even though the Beyond Sync site install download does not (and the registration code works with either in case anyone needs to reinstall at a later date). But this is a minus to me because I like having no install required software because of work PC restrictions. I have hardware DEP enabled on XP and did not need an exception.

The interface is intuitive but bulky as when I tried to resize the window, it would pause because of the interface graphics.

Setting up sync jobs is also intuitive, but the sync methods concern me. Beyond Sync does not appear to keep track of the files in source and destination folders so you have the choice in the last two sync methods to either be able to increase files being synced or the opposite. Let me explain. Both methods says it will keep the source/destination the same, but one method will recognize new files and sync that, and the other method will detect missing files and delete. I might have this wrong, but that's how I am reading the sync methods.

Beyond Sync can schedule the jobs based on time using another provided scheduler program.

I have used various sync programs to help me keep copies of files on alternative storage. To me, Beyond Sync is immature. My current favorite program to use is Synkron Portable http://synkron.sourceforge.net/ which is in beta. It is open source and free, and does pretty much what Beyond Sync does except it does not require installation nor feature auto Windows share login.

Before Synkron, I was using Allway Sync 'n' Go Portable, but its crazy free mode licensing limits 20K files per month, and would include files on your blacklist; so I quickly hit that limit. Allway does have a nice feature to sync with ftp servers, though.

I do not like Microsoft's SyncToy because it does not have a scheduler and requires installation.

I could not justify $25 for a full license when Synkron appears to do the job better.

[My first review, thanks GAOTD]

Installation was straightforward although the GAOTD install had to verify online before it would run even though the Beyond Sync site install download does not (and the registration code works with either in case anyone needs to reinstall at a later date).  But this is a minus to me because I like having no install required software because of work PC restrictions.  I have hardware DEP enabled on XP and did not need an exception.

The interface is intuitive but bulky as when I tried to resize the window, it would pause because of the interface graphics.

Setting up sync jobs is also intuitive, but the sync methods concern me.  Beyond Sync does not appear to keep track of the files in source and destination folders so you have the choice in the last two sync methods to either be able to increase files being synced or the opposite.  Let me explain.  Both methods says it will keep the source/destination the same, but one method will recognize new files and sync that, and the other method will detect missing files and delete.  I might have this wrong, but that's how I am reading the sync methods.

Beyond Sync can schedule the jobs based on time using another provided scheduler program.

I have used various sync programs to help me keep copies of files on alternative storage.  To me, Beyond Sync is immature.  My current favorite program to use is Synkron Portable http://synkron.sourceforge.net/ which is in beta.  It is open source and free, and does pretty much what Beyond Sync does except it does not require installation nor feature auto Windows share login.

Before Synkron, I was using Allway Sync 'n' Go Portable, but its crazy free mode licensing limits 20K files per month, and would include files on your blacklist; so I quickly hit that limit.  Allway does have a nice feature to sync with ftp servers, though.

I do not like Microsoft's SyncToy because it does not have a scheduler and requires installation.

I could not justify $25 for a full license when Synkron appears to do the job better.

[My first review, thanks GAOTD]

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Reply | Comment by Gnat – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#56

I was going to download this software and give it a try,but after eading everyone elses comments i'm not even going to bother!!Sounds terrible!

Reply | Comment by Todd198126 – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#55

Syncback is FREE and is perfect.

http://www.2brightsparks.com/downloads.html#freeware

Reply | Comment by TheWatosh – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#54

SyncToy has a very nice interface but is really slow on my computer. Also, I don't know whether it was XP Service Pack 3 or SyncToy that gave me the blue screen of death, and I'm not going to try again to find out.

Allway Sync seems to be better. I've heard good things about it and just started trying it out yesterday - it's pretty fast, accurate, asks you in cases where it's not sure, and always previews before actually synchronising. I don't think it has zip capability but I'm not sure.

The really fast option is the command line xcopy "C:\source\*.*" E:\target\ /d /s /y /f, but that isn't true synchronization - it just copies the new/modified files, it doesn't do deletions or renaming.

Must admit I haven't tried out this Beyond Sync yet, so I don't know how well it compares.

Reply | Comment by E-Ching – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#53

Hi GAOTD Community,

First of all i'd like to thank for today's giveaway.

The program isn't bad, but i wanna recommend AllwaySync(http://allwaysync.com) which is much more better.

Let me tell you why:
1. It's free
2. It has an easy to use interface
3. It supports a lot of network protocols: FTP, WebDAV, Amazon S3..
4. File Versioning support
and so forth..

It's definitely worth to try.

Reply | Comment by cd ripper – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#52

Fubar,

I just tested it with .zip file. It worked fine for me.

Reply | Comment by Ashraf – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#51

[Apologies if this comment appears more than once. I tried posting it over 7 hours ago, and again maybe 3 hours ago, and neither has appeared on the site. I am reposting my comment only because I think it contains useful information that could be valuable to my fellow GOTD followers. -JP]

Thank you for another chance to acquire this good sync utility, GOTD and Fevosoft. This program was previously offered here on June 11 this year. Therefore, readers can find useful information in the comments on that date here. For your convenience, this is my comment from then (#12):

"Thank you, GOTD and Fevosoft, for offering this synchronization utility. I have been looking for a good free sync tool for a long time, as my blog readers know. I recommended Allway Sync in post #27, and followed up in post #28. However, the free version of Allway Sync limits the number of files it processes in a month (as does the free version of today’s giveaway, Beyond Sync), so I started searching again. I described the features I look for in a syncing utility in post #58. I also have been trying some Web-hosted sync services, such as Microsoft FolderShare. [New note 11/4/08: I am now very happily using Dropbox for syncing, as described in my last post at #76.]

"Today’s giveaway looks falls short of Allway Sync’s functionality, and has a slightly less appealing interface. However, it compares well to most of the free sync tools I’ve seen.

"Beyond Sync installed easily and smoothly on my XP machine (I’ll try the Vista machine later). [New note 11/4/08: It worked fine.] The wizard for setting up synchronization tasks is relatively clear and easy to follow. Its advantages include: real-time synchronization whenever a file is changed, plus a capable scheduler; inclusion and exclusion filters; running multiple sync tasks in one go; backing up to a zip file; and even the ability to change the file name case during copying (though I’m not sure how useful this is).

"However, Beyond Sync has some serious flaws, too. Among them are useful functions that I have found in other programs, such as: In bidirectional syncing, there is no option to prevent deleting files that are absent on one side (this can be dangerous, as commenter #10 seems to have discovered); there is no versioning function, nor backup of deleted files; there is no option to ignore one-hour differences in time stamps; and — this is a biggie — you cannot change the sync actions shown in the preview window. It also does not start syncing when a flash drive is plugged into the USB port, which would have been a nice feature.

"In conclusion, today’s giveaway can be very useful to someone looking for a free sync tool, though I have found freeware sync tools that compare quite well, namely DSynchronize and JFileSync. Someone willing to pay for a really good, unlimited sync tool should consider Allway Sync or what appears to be its cousin, GoodSync."

The brief release notes on the Fevosoft site do not indicate that any of my complaints have been addressed in this new version of Beyond Sync.

I hope this is helpful.

[Apologies if this comment appears more than once. I tried posting it over 7 hours ago, and again maybe 3 hours ago, and neither has appeared on the site. I am reposting my comment only because I think it contains useful information that could be valuable to my fellow GOTD followers. -JP]

Thank you for another chance to acquire this good sync utility, GOTD and Fevosoft. This program was previously offered here on June 11 this year. Therefore, readers can find useful information in the comments on that date <a href="http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/beyond-sync/#comments" rel="nofollow">here</a>. For your convenience, this is my comment from then (#12):

"Thank you, GOTD and Fevosoft, for offering this synchronization utility. I have been looking for a good free sync tool for a long time, as my blog readers know. I recommended Allway Sync in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2007/07/27-sync-or-swim.html" rel="nofollow">#27</a>, and followed up in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2007/07/28-syncing-spirits.html" rel="nofollow">#28</a>. However, the free version of Allway Sync limits the number of files it processes in a month (as does the free version of today’s giveaway, Beyond Sync), so I started searching again. I described the features I look for in a syncing utility in post <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2008/02/58-syncing-honeymoon-is-over.html" rel="nofollow">#58</a>. I also have been trying some Web-hosted sync services, such as Microsoft FolderShare. [New note 11/4/08: I am now very happily using Dropbox for syncing, as described in my last post at <a href="http://jonathanstoolbar.blogspot.com/2008/10/76-what-i-did-last-summer.html" rel="nofollow">#76</a>.]

"Today’s giveaway looks falls short of Allway Sync’s functionality, and has a slightly less appealing interface. However, it compares well to most of the free sync tools I’ve seen.

"Beyond Sync installed easily and smoothly on my XP machine (I’ll try the Vista machine later). [New note 11/4/08: It worked fine.] The wizard for setting up synchronization tasks is relatively clear and easy to follow. Its advantages include: real-time synchronization whenever a file is changed, plus a capable scheduler; inclusion and exclusion filters; running multiple sync tasks in one go; backing up to a zip file; and even the ability to change the file name case during copying (though I’m not sure how useful this is).

"However, Beyond Sync has some serious flaws, too. Among them are useful functions that I have found in other programs, such as: In bidirectional syncing, there is no option to prevent deleting files that are absent on one side (this can be dangerous, as commenter #10 seems to have discovered); there is no versioning function, nor backup of deleted files; there is no option to ignore one-hour differences in time stamps; and — this is a biggie — you cannot change the sync actions shown in the preview window. It also does not start syncing when a flash drive is plugged into the USB port, which would have been a nice feature.

"In conclusion, today’s giveaway can be very useful to someone looking for a free sync tool, though I have found freeware sync tools that compare quite well, namely DSynchronize and JFileSync. Someone willing to pay for a really good, unlimited sync tool should consider Allway Sync or what appears to be its cousin, GoodSync."

The brief release notes on the Fevosoft site do not indicate that any of my complaints have been addressed in this new version of Beyond Sync.

I hope this is helpful.

Save | Cancel

Reply | Comment by JonathansToolBar&Grill – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#50

To be honest, I can't see when I will ever need this software. But that's just me, of course. Others may need this software.

Reply | Comment by Alana – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#49

#4 Kelly, Seems your main goal each day is to try for the highest negatives!

After trying BeyondSync, I'm going to stick with DoubleSaftety, which is easier and more reliable.

Reply | Comment by BlingBlitz – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#48

The only "registration/license key" I get from GAOTD is ttp://www.beyondsync.com/request.php -- which doesn't seem to exist, I don't think any program should have this much confusion.

Reply | Comment by Terry – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#47

I've just installed and it is requiring an activating. I was sent to givewayoftheday page saying that it is activated. But the software still in the same way. What to do?

Reply | Comment by Kiko – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#46

An excellent alternative is goodsync. The personal version is free and quite sufficient. You can set up different folders to go either both ways or just one. I set it up quite some time ago and have never looked back. You can find it at goodsync.com.

Reply | Comment by Nonie – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#45

I might have tried this before I found FolderShare, (www.foldershare.com). Foldershare is FREE, allows you to sync folders on all your computers, and share folders with your friends over the internet! If you cnfigure it to do so, you can browse your hard drives at home(and copy files) from ANYWHERE with an internet connection, not just your own laptop. You can also use it to keep all files in certain folders sync'd. I use it now instead of NetworkNow or Network Magic to share and sync files between my desktops and laptops and my media center PC.

Reply | Comment by geo – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#44

SyncBack is a freeware alternative. I liked it so much, I upgraded to SyncBackSE. There is also a Pro version.
SyncBack can be dowloaded here... http://www.2brightsparks.com/downloads.html#freeware (scroll down page to "100% Freeware from 2BrightSparks")
A comparision of the 3 versions can be seen here... http://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/compare.html

Reply | Comment by ~k~ – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#43

I installed the program and can't see why it's better than free Cobian Backup link.

Reply | Comment by JimH – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#42

It's an okay software. It has nice viewing interface and professional quality. It pretty much does everything it says it does. Personally, I have no need for it, but I'm sure for many people it will be a great program. I'm displeased that this program was chosen over another, seeing as a syncing program is offered about every three weeks, but it is still an okay program and does what it's supposed to. Runs fine on Vista 32bit and has not real issues.

Reply | Comment by Anonymous – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#41

Have tried this before, NEVER AGAIN.

It deleted half my files. Eventually got hem back when I found it puts the deleted files in a "hidden" folder.

Thanks but no thanks.

Reply | Comment by Rick – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#40

You must follow the instructions in the readme file -- go to the beyond sync website for the registration info.
After you install, disregard the "one day" modal, launch the application and select "activate". Then you'll be able to enter the registration info you got from the website.

Reply | Comment by Toby – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#39

I use SyncBack SE and have loved it's interface and ease of use. It also received the largest number of votes for software in the 2007 PC World shareware awards. Check it out at http://www.2brightsparks.com

Reply | Comment by nwlarry – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#38

Very similar to the other Sync software out there...however, this one seems to have a lot of "bugs". Downloaded just fine, installed OK, but started receiving errors almost immediately. After trying to sync some files on my home network, I came to the following conclusion.... MS SyncToy is a far better choice for this type of application, and its free.

Reply | Comment by MTBlades – 15 years ago – Did you find this comment useful? yes | no (0)

#37

Seems to do as advertised, don't know if it's better than SyncToy.
To register, after install, click on 'Activate' button at top right.
Go to www.beyondsyncpro.com/request.php - copy and paste info onto
BeyondSyncPro's registration page.
So far, a thumbs up! Thanks GAOTD!