Vista - file synchronization

there is MS free version called "sync toy" which can apparently sync large number of files (not just pics) between two devices (ie. two ext hd's)

I have seen that this may not be the best way to sync the drives, but am open to suggestions.

anyone have experience with this program or others,,,

A nice free program is FreeCommander. Latest version is 2009.02 It's a file manager app, but it has a nice simple folder sync feature. You hit a button to compare the 2 active folders. After you hit the Sync button it shows what will be copied where before you confirm. Optional recursive folder inclusion. For small numbers of folders it's quick and simple. For complex syncs you might want to use something more sophisticated.

I sync a few important folders, then for everything else I just do an image backup of the whole shootin' match. Depends how you want to approach backups.

It's free so check it out. Also it has its own support forum if you can't figure out some feature.

FreeCommander - freeware file manager


edit: btw I think I've been using FreeCommander since Win98. Works on everything from 98 to XP, Vista 32 and 64 bit and I use it on Windows7 7077. It's pretty reliable.