How to sync two folders on a Windows 10 PC

Coded Java

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06-11-2024

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Imagine you have two folders, one on your local hard drive and the other on a network drive or a cloud storage service. You want to keep these folders in sync, meaning any changes made to one folder are automatically reflected in the other. This is particularly useful for backing up important files, sharing documents with colleagues, or working on projects with multiple collaborators.

Fortunately, Windows 10 offers several built-in tools and third-party solutions to help you seamlessly synchronize folders. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore these methods, breaking down the steps involved and highlighting their advantages and disadvantages.

Using File History

Windows 10's File History feature is a powerful tool for backing up your important files and folders, and it can also be leveraged for synchronization.

Step 1: Enabling File History

1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Backup > More Options.
3. Under Back up using File History, click on "Add a drive".
4. Choose the drive where you want to store your backups, which will be the destination for your synced folder.
5. Click on "OK" to save the settings.

Step 2: Configuring the Backup Schedule

1. In the same Backup Options window, you can customize the "Backup my files" frequency.
2. Select the desired interval: hourly, daily, or every week.
3. Click on "Keep my backups" to set the time period you want to retain your backups.
4. Choose how much storage space you want File History to use.

Step 3: Adding a Specific Folder for Syncing

1. Navigate to "More Options" in the Backup settings.
2. Click on "Add a drive".
3. Select the drive that contains the folder you want to sync.
4. Click on "OK".

File History will now periodically create backups of the chosen folder on the designated drive. Every time you make changes to the source folder, those changes will be reflected in the backup folder.

Limitations of File History for Synchronization

While File History can effectively back up and synchronize folders, it has some limitations that you should be aware of:

• One-way Synchronization: File History is primarily designed for backups, meaning changes in the backup folder are not automatically reflected in the original folder. If you edit a file in the backup folder, you'll have to manually copy it back to the original folder.
• Limited Control over Synchronization Frequency: File History lets you set backup schedules but doesn't offer granular control over the synchronization frequency.
• No Real-Time Synchronization: File History performs backups on a schedule, so there's a delay between changes in the source folder and their reflection in the backup folder. This might not be ideal for situations requiring real-time synchronization.

Using Folder Sync Tools

For real-time synchronization and more robust control, you might consider dedicated folder sync tools. These applications offer advanced features like:

• Two-way Synchronization: Changes made in either folder are reflected in the other.
• Real-Time Synchronization: Changes are synced immediately, eliminating delays.
• Conflict Resolution: Handles situations where both folders have changes in the same file.
• Version History: Lets you revert to previous versions of synced files.
• Selective Synchronization: Choose specific folders or files to sync.
• Remote Synchronization: Sync folders across different devices and locations.

Here are some popular folder sync tools for Windows 10:

• Syncthing: Open-source, cross-platform, and highly customizable.
• SyncTray: Lightweight and user-friendly, with a focus on simplicity.
• GoodSync: Comprehensive and feature-rich, with advanced options for complex scenarios.
• FreeFileSync: Free, open-source, and capable of handling large file transfers.
• Cloud Storage Services: Many cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and others offer built-in folder synchronization capabilities.

Using the "Sync Center" Feature

Windows 10 also has a built-in "Sync Center" feature, although it is primarily designed for syncing personal settings across different devices rather than syncing folders on a single device. You can access the Sync Center by going to "Settings" > "Accounts" > "Sync your settings".

However, you can use the Sync Center to synchronize specific folders by leveraging the following steps:

Step 1: Set up a "OneDrive" Folder

1. Ensure that you are signed in to your Microsoft account on your Windows 10 device.
2. Open "Settings" > "Accounts" > "Sync your settings".
3. Enable "Sync settings" and ensure "OneDrive" is turned on.
4. You'll now have a OneDrive folder on your computer where you can store files that will be synchronized with your cloud storage.

Step 2: Create a Shortcut to the OneDrive Folder

1. Open "File Explorer" and navigate to the OneDrive folder.
2. Right-click on the folder and choose "Create shortcut".
3. Move the shortcut to the desired location on your computer.

Step 3: Link the Target Folder to the Shortcut

1. Right-click on the OneDrive shortcut and choose "Properties".
2. Go to the "Shortcut" tab and in the "Target" field, add a space after the existing path and then type the full path to the folder you want to sync.
3. Click on "Apply" and "OK" to save the changes.

Step 4: Make Changes to the Target Folder

Any changes you make to the target folder will now be reflected in the OneDrive folder, and vice versa. You can access the synchronized files from other devices where you have signed in to your Microsoft account.

Limitations of Sync Center for Folder Synchronization

While using Sync Center for folder synchronization is a workaround, it is not a primary function of the tool, and therefore it has its limitations:

• Cloud Storage Dependency: It relies on OneDrive as the intermediary, requiring you to store files in the cloud.
• One-way Synchronization: It primarily functions as a one-way synchronization method, where changes in the target folder are reflected in the OneDrive folder, but changes made in the OneDrive folder might not be automatically reflected in the target folder.
• Limited Customization: It offers minimal customization options for synchronization settings.

Using Third-Party Cloud Storage Services

Many popular cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive offer built-in folder synchronization features.

Step 1: Create an Account

Sign up for a free or paid account with the cloud storage service of your choice.

Step 2: Download and Install the Desktop App

Most cloud storage services provide a desktop app for Windows that you can download and install.

Step 3: Select the Folder to Sync

After installing the app, you'll be prompted to choose the folder on your computer that you want to synchronize with your cloud storage. You can also create additional folders within the app's interface to organize your files.

Step 4: Enable Synchronization

Once you have selected the folder, enable the synchronization option in the app's settings. This will allow the app to continuously monitor your folder for changes and automatically update the corresponding folder on your cloud storage.

Advantages of Using Cloud Storage Services for Synchronization

• Real-Time Synchronization: Changes are synced immediately, ensuring your data is always up-to-date.
• Two-way Synchronization: Changes made in either folder are reflected in the other.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Access your synced files from different devices and operating systems.
• Accessibility from Anywhere: Access your files from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Version History: Many services offer version history, letting you revert to previous versions of files.

Disadvantages of Using Cloud Storage Services for Synchronization

• Internet Connection Dependency: Continuous internet connectivity is required for seamless synchronization.
• Storage Limits: Free accounts often have limited storage space.
• Security Concerns: Data stored in the cloud is susceptible to security breaches.

Choosing the Right Synchronization Method

The best method for syncing two folders on your Windows 10 PC depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

Here's a table summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of each method:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I sync folders on different drives within the same PC?

Yes, you can use any of the methods discussed above to synchronize folders located on different drives within the same PC. For example, you can use File History to back up a folder on your C drive to an external hard drive connected to your PC.

2. Can I sync folders across different computers?

Yes, you can use folder sync tools or cloud storage services to sync folders across different computers. These methods allow you to keep your files synchronized regardless of the physical location of the devices.

3. How do I handle file conflicts when syncing folders?

Most folder synchronization tools provide conflict resolution mechanisms. For example, they might allow you to keep the newer version, the older version, or merge both versions. You should review the conflict resolution options offered by your chosen tool.

4. Can I sync folders with specific files or subfolders?

Yes, many folder sync tools and cloud storage services allow you to selectively synchronize specific files or subfolders within a folder. This lets you control which files are synchronized and saves time and resources.

5. How do I choose the right folder synchronization tool?

The best folder synchronization tool for you depends on your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as ease of use, features, compatibility, cost, and security.

Conclusion

Keeping two folders on your Windows 10 PC in sync is a valuable task, whether you're backing up important files, collaborating on projects, or simply managing your data. The options available range from built-in features to third-party tools and cloud storage services.

By carefully evaluating your specific requirements and exploring the advantages and disadvantages of each method, you can choose the most appropriate solution for your needs and ensure that your folders stay synchronized and your data remains accessible and secure.