SyncToy on Windows 11: Full Guide and Best Free Alternative

What is SyncToy?

SyncToy is a free file sync software developed by Microsoft. It operates in the same way as traditional one-way synchronization, transferring all files from left to right. With SyncToy, you get a convenient, uncomplicated, and stable method of synchronization.

Synchronizing files and folders on local or network computers has never been easier. With tools like SyncToy, users can ensure that renamed or modified files stay up-to-date across different locations. SyncToy allows you to save synchronized data in multiple locations and devices for added convenience. In this step-by-step guide, I will demonstrate how to use SyncToy for file synchronization in Windows 11. Additionally, I'll introduce you to the best free alternative to SyncToy for those looking for more features. Keep reading to find out more.

AOMEI Backupper

Best free SyncToy alternative for all Windows operating systems.

Download Freeware
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

The Benefits of File Synchronization

🚩Enhanced Accessibility: File synchronization ensures that you can access the most recent versions of your files from any device or location. This is crucial for those who work across multiple devices, such as a desktop in the office and a laptop at home.
🚩Improved Collaboration: Synchronization facilitates seamless teamwork by providing real-time updates. When one user modifies a file, those changes are instantly reflected across all synced devices, reducing the risk of working on outdated versions.
🚩Data Protection: Syncing files to multiple locations serves as a form of backup. In the event of a hardware failure, data corruption, or accidental deletion, you can easily retrieve the latest versions of your files from another synchronized device or cloud storage.
🚩Time Efficiency: Automated synchronization saves time by eliminating the need for manual file transfers. This is especially beneficial for users who frequently update their documents, photos, or other files, as the sync process runs in the background without interrupting workflow.
🚩Enhanced Security: Many synchronization tools offer robust security features such as encryption, access controls, and audit logs. This ensures that your data is protected during transit and at rest, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access.

How to sync files with SyncToy in Windows 11

Step 1. Download and install SyncToy on your PC. 

✍ If you fail to install SyncToy in Windows 11 and are told .NET Framework is required. You can follow the steps to install the .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0) in the Windows features.

• Click on Start, search for "Turn Windows features on or off" and click on that.
• Select the .NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0) and click on "OK" to install.
• When finished, reboot your PC, and continue the file sync process.

Step 2. Launch SyncToy and click "Create New Folder Pair."

Step 3. Click "Browse" to select the folders. Choose the Left Folder as the source folder and the Right Folder as the destination folder.

Step 4. Choose the sync method you want to use: Synchronize Echo and Contribute. Then click "Next" to continue.

✍ Notes:
Synchronize: Two-way synchronization. If a file is renamed or deleted in one folder, this change is synchronized to another folder where the same file will be renamed or deleted.
Echo: A one-way process from left to right. That is, renames and deletes on the left affect the changes in the right folder, but not vice versa.
Contribute: A one-way process from left to right but no deletes. That means if you delete a file in the left folder, it will not be deleted in the right. Renames are repeated from left to right as Echo.

Step 5. Name your folder pair and click "Finish."

Step 6. After creating a folder pair, you can change the sync settings at any time. Click on "Preview" to see the pending sync task. If everything looks correct, you can click on the "Run" button and wait for the sync to complete successfully.

What if SyncToy fails to sync files?

However, although Microsoft SyncToy on Windows 11 is a reliable tool, it does have some shortcomings.

▶ SyncToy cannot synchronize files or folders from removable devices.
▶ SyncToy does not support scheduled synchronization tasks. If you want to run SyncToy automatically, you should turn to the task scheduler.

Besides that, you may encounter other problems with SyncToy, thus you may ask, "Why is SyncToy not available on Windows 11?" "What's the best SyncToy Windows 11 alternative?" Moving on, I will show you the best alternative to SyncToy, which can meet your basic synchronization needs and provide you with a functional experience that SyncToy does not. Continue reading to get more details.

What features should you value for alternative software?

1. Ease of Use: Simplifies the process of file synchronization, making it accessible to all users.
2. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Ensures seamless synchronization of files across different devices, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.
3. Real-Time Sync: Keeps files up-to-date in real-time, which is particularly useful for collaborative work environments.
4. Security Features: Protects sensitive information from unauthorized access and data breaches, ensuring data integrity and privacy.
5. Selective Sync: Manages storage space efficiently and ensures that only essential data is synchronized, reducing unnecessary data transfer and storage usage.

Best free SyncToy alternative in Windows 11

When it comes to the best free file sync software, the top and most recommended one is - AOMEI Backupper Standard. This free SyncToy replacement for Windows 11 is designed to sync files quickly and securely across devices, and it supports a wide range of file types, including documents, photos, videos, and more. It has many efficient and powerful features, which are listed below:

AOMEI Backupper

Free SyncToy Alternative

• Full Sync Features: With its Sync feature, you can sync files between 2 PCs, sync files to Dropbox and other cloud drives, from PC to local path (HDD or SSD)as well as share or NAS devices and vice versa.
• Flexible Sync Options: It offers 4 sync modes: Basic Sync, Real-Time Sync, Mirror Sync, and Two-Way Sync. (The last 3 ones are available in the Pro version)
• Auto Sync: It allows you to set a schedule sync task, and then it will synchronize the files daily/weekly/monthly without missing any changed data.
• Wide Support: All Windows PC operating systems are supported, for example, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP.

Download Freeware
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

100% Secure

Download AOMEI Backupper Standard to have a try. Follow the graphical steps to see how this SyncToy alternative on Windows 11 works below.

Sync files with the best free sync tool - AOMEI Backupper

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI Backupper. Click "Sync" and then choose "Basic Sync."

Tip: AOMEI Backupper Standard edition only supports Basic Sync. The software offers three other advanced sync modes, like Mirror Sync, Two-Way Sync, and Real-Time Sync, you can upgrade to the Pro or other advanced versions to enjoy.

Step 2. Click "Add Folder" to choose the files you would like to sync.

Options: You can write comments for your task and set an email notification.
Schedule: It allows you to automatically sync your files by setting frequencies such as Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Event triggers, and USB plug in. 

Step 3. Select another location as the destination path. Then, click "Start Sync" to perform the operation.

Step 4. Wait for the sync process to complete and then click the "Finish" button.

Bonus Tip: 

Both file synchronization and backups are crucial for ensuring data security. To prevent data loss due to unexpected events like hard drive failures, many users opt to sync or backup files to the cloud. However, popular cloud storage options such as Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox offer only limited free storage.

In this scenario, AOMEI Backupper provides an excellent alternative with its own cloud storage solution—AOMEI Cloud. This service is not only more affordable but also offers greater storage capacity. When you sign up for an AOMEI account, you receive 1TB of free storage for the first 15 days.

FAQs about Synctoy on Windows 11

Conclusion

That covers how to sync files with SyncToy on Windows 11 or with the free file sync tool AOMEI Backupper Standard. I hope one of these solutions meets your needs and resolves your issues effectively.

Additionally, AOMEI Backupper not only supports file and folder synchronization but also allows you to create a full backup of your Windows 11 system. It can be a reliable tool to safeguard your files and data. Why not give it a try now?