GoodSync 12.8.0

Overview

As its name suggests, GoodSync is an application that allows synchronization between various computers and can be successfully employed as a backup utility. In essence, GoodSync maintains the information of the files or the folders that are synced at all times by constantly updating their content. There is no limitation regarding the number of folders that can be synchronized simultaneously and its speed is nothing short of amazing.

Installation

GoodSync comes as freeware and the kit is 13.69MB in the current version. It is worth noting that it works for Windows and Mac OS. Once GoodSync has been installed, the program will prompt users to choose whether they need to connect devices using the GoodSync Connect or if they want to use it only as a backup utility. Opting for the GoodSync connect alternative requires creating an account on the website and entering a username and password.

Interface

Once the user has created a password and logged into the account, the GoodSync application will request an operating system password and a name for the syncing operation. The upper bar of the display window for the program comprises of a bar that allows job-related options, switching the view mode for the existing jobs, performing the actual synchronizing operation, setting up the preferences or viewing the help manual.

The middle part of the interface contains a sub-section displaying the folders being synchronized, whereas the lower part allows users to analyze the sync job or perform this task automatically. Overall, clear and self-explanatory for anyone who is familiar with the concept of synchronizing. In addition, when running the application for the first time a pop-up browser window will be displayed showing the exact steps of the syncing procedure.

Pros

Not only can this program perform an excellent one-way synchronization job, but it is also adept at bi-directional syncs. In essence, regardless of where the modification to a file or folder occurs, GoodSync detects it and propagates it through the entire link, as specified by the user. This is referred to as chain synchronization. In order to have more control over the files in the synchronized folders, the user can make use of filters that can exclude the ones that should not be modified in the synchronization. At the same time, GoodSync works with portable paths for external storage devices.

Cons

The free version presents certain huge limitations over the pro version and some users feel that it might be better to allow more features in the free version for them to test it before deciding if they should go for the pro version.

Alternatives

High rated alternatives to GoodSync include SpiderOak (Windows, Mac, Linux), Dropbox, and SugarSync (Windows, Mac).

Conclusion

GoodSync 9 is far from being just another synchronization application in the ocean, thanks to the innovative features included by the developers. The free version of the software utility has a few neat functions, such as the ability to synchronize more than just computers, in terms of FTP servers or WeBDAV servers, for instance, while the Pro version offer so much more! At the same time, although it has been created to accommodate the needs of novice users, GoodSync is still equipped to serve any tech savvy out there.