Difficult folder merge - need ideas

@Callender, I have tried Araxis but it does not provide what I need.

As for the network shares, it is dependent on the program as to whether or not they support the use of network shares.

The problem here though is not the network share as I first thought, it is the folder location on that share and it's contents and the fact that my locations are not all identical, which is rather silly in my view.

But then WinMerge is aimed at file merging not folder merging, unfortunately.

I do appreciate your input though, you have gone to great lengths to help, Thank You. :)

it is the folder location on that share and it's contents and the fact that my locations are not all identical, which is rather silly in my view

That's precisely why I went with a NAS connected to my Router for storage instead of mapping drives/partitions on individual computers. Windows, by default, starts mapping a network drive with Z:, makes life simple and I can access the files on it from Windows computers, Mac OS X and Linux, either Wired or Wi-FI. Also have 2 printers connected to the Router. If I wanted to run programs across the network I'd install a set up machine and install programs accordingly, I have a suitable machine available and the server software.

One idea for storage, some Routers now come with one or two USB ports for setting up an External USB HDD for storage, I got mine [replacement] after having the NAS for awhile.

@Berton, and what has any of that to do with my original question?

Well, I guess it didn't meet a definition fitting your Subject line of " Difficult folder merge - need ideas". When one asks for ideas it opens up the possibility of a world of suggestions. Of course it could simply be a difference of understanding between various languages.

@Berton, If you had read this thread then you would know that I have a NAS, in fact I have two, and adding a mapped location is a perfectly sound and reasonable thing to do, why you think otherwise is beyond me.

The subject line invites ideas in regards to folder merging, I guess you missed that though.

So, do you have any suggestions about how to merge the contents of two different locations into a single remote location and then be able to track any changes in any of the 3 locations?

@Pyprohly, I don't know why you think I was snapping at anyone, maybe it's just the way you read it?

I am not looking to simply 'backup' the files, although that is one purpose I am achieving. I need to monitor what files have been copied and what files have not been, and whether or not I have any duplicates in any of the three locations. Creating text files is easy enough using bat files or cscript etc. but it doesn't provide the compare ops that I need.

I have considered using symlinks but there have been some issues with them. I'd rather keep the filesystem as clean as possible and avoid any possible headaches in that area. I have enough of those already ...

trumpy81 said:

I need to monitor what files have been copied and what files have not been, and whether or not I have any duplicates in any of the three locations.

An inconvenience of a situation you are in, Trumpy, indeed; you are asking for much. (With or without Symbolic links) That headache will develop in a new area if you continue to refuse to try any of the recommendations mentioned here for you. There's no use in us handing you anymore content to work with if it's just going to go straight in the trash.

Pauly said:

Unsubscribed

Following suit.