Goodsync and Syncback

Are these two tools better than an imaging program and Win SnchToy,
or are they outdated versions of more current applications?

 

I know that Goodsync is actively developed, and I use it to back up my data drive. I can't say it's better or worse than an imaging tool, because it's used where images aren't needed, just plain old file copies.

 

>>Your reply helped because I am trying to understand if they have a place in my situation. I have a single partition and image. I tried file sharing but it did not fit into my way of doing things either. Perhaps these would be more appropriate for one who needs to back up and coordinate their files more than I. I would not have consumed forum space with this except I was not able to to get as much information as I neeeded about them.

 

All that sync programs do is help you to maintain two identical copies of selected folders. In no way can they replace what an imaging program does. However, by running an imaging program from time to time, so that your entire system is protected, and by running a sync program daily so that your data files are protected, you have the ideal backup scenario for home users.

Personally I use SyncBack free edition for my data folders. I tried Goodsync, and it works very well, but it turned out to be shareware, and after a while it stops working unless you pay for it. Microsoft's SyncToy also works well so whether you use that or SyncBack is just personal preference. Whichever, do not fool yourself into thinking it is some sort of substitute for an imaging program, because it most definitely is not.

 

I better understand.
I always image but never have synchronized my files.
This could be of benefit if you are trying to be sure your files are the same on two machines, I assume.
I am sure there is a way you can be sure not to lose a file by making one the "boss' which you wish the other to synchronize with.

 

The last thing you want imo is the same files on two separate operating systems, as it guarantees you will end up with two versions of the same file and may not be sure which is 'boss'. If you want to use the same files on two different systems then do it by mapping a network drive, not by duplicating. Sync programs are primarily useful for data backup purposes.

As I said, use mapping. That way, both computers are reading and writing the same physical file.

 

>> I am going to have to put this on my list of things to learn.
Is is not as though I do not appreciate your time however.

 

You only need to set up a home network between your PC and laptop, and share the folders that you wish to use on both machines. After that is done you can use mapping to read and write folders on the other machine. A mapped folder is given a drive letter but otherwise looks and behaves the same as a folder on the machine you are using.

 

>>All that sync programs do is help you to maintain two identical copies of selected folders.

So these folders are in the same machine and synch makes sure they are the same?

Mapping is a waty to ensure that data on two machines is the same?

Is there a site that explains how to set up mapping?

 

They can be on the same machine or on another machine on your network

I'm clearly not explaining it very well. Mapping is a way of making a folder on one machine accessible from another. There is only the one folder on one machine.

Once you have your home network set up you simply right click (My) Computer and the Map Network Drive feature is right there on the context menu. It could not be made any easier.

 

You are explaining yourself well.
The issue is on this end. i have the general idea and have some work to do.
Your notes make good reference material.

In part due to lack of exposure, I thought file sharing was the way to access another folder. I thought that precluded any other way or a better way.
Not having done any of this, filesharing, networking, mapping, synchronizing etc are interwoven and at times unclear.
Then there are homegroups with this new Win 7 concept.

I'll get back to you after I have studied and done some trial and error work.
You do instruct well.