Best file sync software for local disk to NAS?

tony22 said:

It seems FreeFileSync is somewhat popular. Has a lot of bloatware that can be bypassed with a custom install (from what I've read), but I wonder if anyone has tried it?

I use FreeFileSync (FFS) to backup internal drives to external ones using a built-in dock in my computer. Since SyncToy worked for you, albeit slower than desired, I don't see why FFS wouldn't work for you. It is free (duh!), easy to use, and fast. Of course, its speed is also dependent on the connection used to the destination drive (in your case, the NAS).

I especially like the versioning feature that gives you the option to dump deleted files into a folder and/or drive of your choice instead of the Recycle Bin or sending them to Computer Never Never Land. This way, you can review the folders and files that were deleted from the destination drive before deleting them or you can hang on to them for a while in case you decide you didn't want to delete any of them (a process called versioning).

A pretty much essential feature for me is the option to identify the destination drive by drive name instead of drive letter. I like that because drive letter assignments on external drives can be fluid. Using the drive name instead of a drive letter ensures the backup will work no matter what drive letter the computer assigns to the destination.

FFS does come with OpenCandy, a bloatware loader, imbedded in the installation file but one can avoid the bloatware by paying attention during installation and deselecting the bloatware offering. Also, MBAM will pickup on the OpenCandy in the installation file as a PUP during a scan. Since OpenCandy will run only during FFS installation and doesn't install itself, staying confined to the FFS installation file, it doesn't hurt to have it on your computer. Since I keep all downloaded installation files after installing their programs, I keep MBAM from hitting on the OpenCandy in FFS' installation file by adding .disable to the end of the installation file's filename. It also ensures that OpenCandy can never run on its own, although it's highly unlikely it ever will. If I ever need to use it again, all I need to do is delete the .disable first. If you don't retain installation files like I do, deleting it will also get rid of OpenCandy.

pcunite said:

...No bloat ware, not sure I trust companies who put that stuff in their installers.

Normally I don't but FreeFileSync's installer is harmless as long as one pays attention while installing.

This one is not free. I have no complaints. I keep many, many files synced between two comp.

GoodSync: File Synchronization Software, File Backup, File Sync