As you know that a computer Hard Disk Drive consists of server electro-mechanical components, there is every chance that it may fail one day without of notice (it is not completely true !!!). If that ever happens, we will not only lose money, we lose files/pictures/important documents what not. So it is always advisable to take a backup.
Backup process can be either copying your files to a CD/DVD or to another computer or to an External Hard Disk Drive. Copying to a CD/DVD is a tedious process and we will end up living with numerous disks with accessibility limitations. So it is easy to copy them to another computer or external hard drive. Copying takes time because the OS compares the file names and sizes and then prompt you everytime to make a choice. The solution to this problem is Synchronizing.
I came across this simple tool from Microsoft called SyncToy. It is a simple tool which is useful in synchronizing the files residing in the same drive/to an external hard drive/to another computer in the network.
You can download the tool from this Link and install it. Once it is installed you can open the SyncToy from your Start Menu -> Programs.
1. Create a New Folder Pair. This is to select folder1 and folder2 for establishing a sync.
2. Select the Left folder (Typically your source folder) and Click Next
3. Select your Right Folder (Destination Folder) and click Next
4. Select the Synchronization option and Click Next.
Note : Read through the Short explanation for each option and select the right option.
5. Give the Folder pair a name and Click on Finish.
6. Now the tool will show you the main screen where you can Preview or Run the Sync.
7. Use Preview button to see whats going to happen after the Run.
Click on Run button if you are okay with the Preview.
Now your folders are synchronized and you can use your Folder Pair name to run it next time.
