PureSync – File Sync and Backup

What is PureSync?

PureSync is a free file synchronization and backup utility for Windows that automatically keeps folders synchronized across multiple locations including local drives, network shares, and removable media while offering flexible backup options, bidirectional sync, and scheduled automation—making it accessible alternative to commercial sync tools like GoodSync ($29.95) or SyncBackPro ($59.95) for home users, small businesses, and IT professionals needing reliable file synchronization without licensing costs or subscription fees that enterprise solutions demand. Developed by Jumping Bytes Software since 2003, PureSync emphasizes straightforward operation through wizard-driven setup guiding users from folder selection through sync configuration, serving users who need more control than basic file copying provides but find enterprise sync tools unnecessarily complex or expensive for personal and small-scale business needs requiring protection against data loss, file versioning, or multi-location synchronization ensuring critical documents remain accessible across computers, backup drives, and network storage.

PureSync excels through practical synchronization features—performing bidirectional sync keeping both locations identical when files change in either location, offering one-way sync creating backup copies without modifying source, synchronizing between local folders, external drives, network drives, and FTP servers, detecting file conflicts when same file modified in both locations allowing manual resolution, scheduling automatic syncs running at specified times or intervals, creating file versions preserving previous file states for recovery from corruption or mistakes, filtering files by type, size, or date for selective synchronization, previewing changes before execution showing what will be modified, and maintaining detailed logs tracking all sync operations for troubleshooting. Whether backing up photos to external drive, synchronizing work documents between office and home computers, maintaining identical folders across network shares, protecting against accidental deletion through versioning, or automating nightly backups, PureSync handles common synchronization scenarios commercial tools monetize through paid licenses.

Beyond core sync capabilities, PureSync offers useful features including portable mode running from USB drives without installation, file compression reducing storage space requirements, encryption protecting sensitive data during transfer and storage, intelligent sync detecting renamed files preventing unnecessary re-copying, database synchronization for specific applications, command-line operation enabling scripting and automation, email notifications alerting users of sync completion or errors, and Windows service mode allowing syncs to run even when no user logged in. Free version provides full functionality for personal use with professional features unlocked through optional paid upgrade, but most users find free tier sufficient for home and small office needs. While PureSync lacks cloud storage integration requiring manual network drive mapping or FTP configuration, interface feels dated compared to modern sync tools, and occasional sync conflicts require understanding of bidirectional sync concepts users unfamiliar with file synchronization might find challenging, its combination of zero cost for full features, reliable operation, reasonable resource usage, and active development makes it valuable Windows utility for users seeking folder synchronization and backup beyond simple file copying but below complexity and cost of enterprise solutions.

Key Features

• Bidirectional Sync: Two-way synchronization keeping both locations identical automatically.
• One-Way Backup: Create backup copies without modifying source files.
• Multiple Locations: Sync between local folders, network drives, FTP servers, and removable media.
• Scheduled Automation: Automatic syncs at specified times, intervals, or on user login/logout.
• File Versioning: Keep multiple versions of files for recovery from mistakes or corruption.
• Conflict Detection: Identify when same file modified in both locations requiring resolution.
• Preview Mode: See what will change before executing sync preventing unwanted modifications.
• File Filtering: Include/exclude files by name, extension, size, or date for selective sync.
• Portable Mode: Run from USB drive without installation for mobile sync tasks.
• Encryption: Protect files during transfer and storage with encryption.
• Compression: Reduce storage space requirements through file compression.
• Detailed Logging: Track all sync operations for troubleshooting and auditing.
• Email Notifications: Receive alerts about sync completion or errors.
• Windows Service: Run syncs as background service even when no user logged in.
• Command-Line Interface: Automate syncs through scripts and batch files.

What’s New in PureSync 2024/2025

• Version 6.0+: Latest release with performance improvements and new features.
• Better Windows 11 Support: Improved compatibility with Windows 11 interface and features.
• Enhanced Performance: Faster sync operations with optimized file comparison.
• Improved Conflict Handling: Better conflict detection and resolution options.
• Updated Interface: Refreshed UI while maintaining familiar wizard-driven approach.
• Better File Filtering: More granular filtering options for selective synchronization.
• Enhanced Security: Updated encryption and secure connection protocols.
• Bug Fixes: Resolved sync errors and stability improvements.
• Performance Optimizations: Reduced resource usage during sync operations.
• Documentation Updates: Improved help files and user guides.

System Requirements

Windows

• Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP (32-bit and 64-bit)
• 500 MHz processor or faster
• 512 MB RAM minimum (1 GB+ recommended)
• 30 MB disk space for installation
• Network connection for network/FTP sync
• Administrator privileges for Windows service mode

How to Get Started with PureSync

1. Download: Visit jumpingbytes.com and download PureSync installer (free for personal use).
2. Install: Run installer—straightforward setup with no bundled software.
3. Launch PureSync: Open application—wizard guides initial configuration.
4. Create New Sync Job: File > New to start wizard creating synchronization task.
5. Choose Sync Type: Select “Synchronize folders” (bidirectional) or “Backup folders” (one-way).
6. Select Left Folder: Choose source folder (local drive, network, or FTP).
7. Select Right Folder: Choose destination folder (external drive, network share, etc.).
8. Configure Options: Set file filters, versioning, and deletion handling as needed.
9. Preview Sync: Click “Preview” to see what changes will occur before executing.
10. Execute Sync: Click “Synchronize” button to perform folder synchronization.
11. Schedule Automatic Sync: Right-click sync job > Properties > Schedule tab to automate.
12. Monitor Progress: View detailed log showing all file operations during sync.

PureSync vs Alternatives

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Free for Personal Use: Full functionality at zero cost for home users and small-scale needs.
• Easy Setup: Wizard-driven interface accessible to non-technical users.
• Flexible Sync Options: Bidirectional sync, one-way backup, and custom configurations.
• Scheduled Automation: Set-and-forget automatic syncs at specified times or intervals.
• File Versioning: Keep multiple file versions protecting against accidental changes.
• Portable Mode: Run from USB drive for IT technicians or mobile workflows.
• Detailed Logging: Comprehensive logs helping troubleshoot sync issues.
• Windows Service Mode: Run syncs as background service without user login.
• Active Development: Regular updates improving compatibility and fixing bugs.
• Resource Efficient: Reasonable resource usage during sync operations.

Cons

• Windows Only: No macOS or Linux versions—strictly Windows application.
• Dated Interface: UI feels old-fashioned compared to modern sync tools.
• No Native Cloud Support: Requires manual network mapping or FTP for cloud sync.
• Learning Curve: Bidirectional sync concepts confuse users unfamiliar with synchronization.
• Conflict Resolution: Manual conflict handling required when both sides modified.
• Commercial Restrictions: Free version restricted to personal use—businesses need paid license.
• Limited Documentation: Help files basic compared to commercial alternatives.
• No Mobile Apps: Desktop only—no smartphone or tablet versions.

Who Should Use PureSync?

PureSync is ideal for:

• Home Users: Free folder synchronization and backup for personal files.
• Budget-Conscious Users: Needing sync capabilities without paying for GoodSync or commercial tools.
• Windows Users: Those on Windows platform wanting integrated sync solution.
• Multi-Computer Users: Syncing documents between office, home, and laptop computers.
• Backup Enthusiasts: Creating versioned backups protecting against data loss.
• IT Technicians: Portable tool for client computer synchronization tasks.
• Small Businesses: Affordable paid license for commercial use needs.
• Network Share Users: Syncing local folders with network drives or NAS devices.
• Photographers: Backing up photo libraries to multiple drives with versioning.
• Students: Free sync solution for school work across multiple computers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PureSync really free or are there hidden costs?

PureSync is genuinely free for personal, non-commercial use with full functionality—no trial period, no feature restrictions, no forced upgrades. Commercial use (business environments) requires purchasing professional license ($24.95 one-time fee) which is still inexpensive compared to competitors. Free personal version includes: unlimited sync jobs, bidirectional and one-way sync, scheduling, versioning, encryption, and all features professional version offers. Only restriction: use in business/commercial setting requires license. For home users, students, and personal projects, PureSync costs nothing. Compare to GoodSync requiring $29.95 even for personal use—PureSync’s free personal licensing makes it accessible option for home synchronization needs.

How does PureSync handle file conflicts in bidirectional sync?

Conflicts occur when same file modified in both locations between syncs. PureSync detects conflicts during analysis showing them separately in preview. Resolution options: manually choose which version to keep, always prefer newer file based on timestamp, always prefer specific side (left or right), or keep both versions with renamed copy. Best practices: review conflicts carefully before proceeding, understand why conflicts occur (editing same file on two computers), consider one-way sync if working primarily from one location, or use real-time sync alternatives if conflicts frequent. Conflicts are normal with bidirectional sync—proper workflow and periodic syncs minimize occurrence. PureSync’s preview mode helps identify conflicts before making changes.

Can I sync to cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox?

Indirectly. PureSync doesn’t have native cloud integration like GoodSync, but can sync to cloud through: installing cloud provider’s desktop app (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) creating local sync folder, then using PureSync to sync local folders to that cloud-synced folder achieving cloud backup. Limitations: requires cloud provider’s client installed, uses local disk space, and adds sync layer potentially causing conflicts. Alternative: map cloud storage as network drive (some providers support WebDAV), then sync directly via network path. For extensive cloud integration with multiple providers, GoodSync’s native cloud support may justify $29.95 cost. For occasional cloud backup or single cloud provider, PureSync’s indirect approach works adequately at zero cost.

What’s the difference between synchronize and backup modes?

Synchronize (bidirectional): keeps both locations identical—changes in either location propagate to the other. Use when: working on files from multiple computers wanting latest version everywhere, collaborating with others on shared network folder, or maintaining identical copies across locations. Backup (one-way): copies from source to destination without modifying source. Use when: creating protected copies on external drive, archiving to network storage, or protecting files without reverse changes. Example: Synchronize documents between laptop and desktop so edits on either appear on both; Backup photos to external drive so photos copy to drive but deleting from drive doesn’t affect originals. Choose based on workflow: bidirectional for multi-location work, one-way for safety-focused backup preserving originals.

Final Verdict

PureSync delivers accessible file synchronization and backup capabilities for Windows users seeking reliable folder sync—performing bidirectional synchronization keeping folders identical across multiple locations, offering one-way backup creating protected copies on external drives or network storage, scheduling automatic syncs running at specified times eliminating manual intervention, preserving file versions protecting against accidental changes or corruption, detecting conflicts when same file modified in both locations enabling informed resolution, and providing all functionality completely free for personal use while requiring only modest $24.95 one-time license for commercial deployment. For home users needing folder synchronization beyond simple file copying, students maintaining work across multiple computers, photographers backing up libraries to multiple drives with version protection, IT technicians requiring portable sync tool for client computers, and budget-conscious users wanting sync capabilities without recurring GoodSync or SyncBackPro subscriptions, PureSync provides practical solution emphasizing straightforward operation through wizard-driven setup accessible to non-technical users.

While Windows-exclusive nature excludes macOS and Linux users requiring cross-platform alternatives like FreeFileSync, lack of native cloud integration requires workarounds through network mapping or cloud client sync folders less elegant than GoodSync’s built-in cloud support, dated interface feels archaic compared to modern sync tools prioritizing visual polish, and bidirectional sync concepts challenge users unfamiliar with synchronization requiring understanding of conflict resolution and sync direction implications, these limitations become manageable for users prioritizing cost savings and functional reliability over interface aesthetics or cloud convenience. Download from jumpingbytes.com and discover whether PureSync’s combination of zero cost for personal use, comprehensive sync features, and active development serves synchronization needs—worst case, you’ve tried free software costing nothing; best case, you’ve found reliable sync solution eliminating need for expensive commercial alternatives while protecting valuable data through automated backup and synchronization workflows maintaining file accessibility across multiple locations and devices.