FreeFileSync
FreeFileSync is an open-source file synchronization and backup app for macOS that compares folders and copies only changed files.
What is FreeFileSync?
FreeFileSync is a macOS file synchronization and backup utility that helps users compare folders and keep files matched across drives, network locations, and other storage targets. It is designed for people who want more control than simple drag-and-drop copying, including home users protecting important documents and power users managing mirrored folders or recurring backup jobs. The app shows differences between source and target folders, then transfers only the changed data, which can save time on large sync tasks. Common uses include maintaining backup copies, mirroring project folders, updating external drives, and running batch synchronization jobs. FreeFileSync is published by Florian Bauer and is also available for Windows and Linux, making it useful in mixed-device workflows.
Key features
- Compare folders to detect added, changed, moved, and deleted files
- Synchronize files with mirror, update, and two-way sync modes
- Create and run batch jobs for repeated backup or sync tasks
- Work with local folders, external drives, and network locations
- Preview synchronization changes before copying or deleting files
- Handle large file collections without recopying everything each time
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
FreeFileSync is legitimate synchronization software, and its access to folders you choose is normal for a backup and sync tool. Because it can copy, update, and delete files as part of synchronization, the main practical risk is using the wrong sync mode or target folder and changing data you did not intend to modify. Review the planned actions before running a job, especially for two-way or mirror sync, and test important workflows with noncritical folders first.
Recommendation: Keep FreeFileSync if you use it for backups, mirrored folders, or routine file synchronization. If you no longer rely on it, you can remove it like other apps, but make sure you do not still depend on any saved sync jobs or scheduled workflows it supports.
Common paths
/Applications/FreeFileSync.app
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