Looking for file and folder copy tools that allow moving sources to several destinations simultaneously.
Looking for file and folder copy tools that allow moving sources to several destinations simultaneously.
I own a substantial music library that I have spent the past year preparing by ripping CDs, generating digital versions of tracks, and building playlists. I have kept these songs and playlists organized in designated folders, using them both as the original source and backup on both my internal and external storage devices. As time passes, I might acquire additional CDs and expand my collection; I already have a checklist for the ripping, conversion, copying, and transferring steps. While I’ve tried a few programs meant for file and folder transfer between computers, I’m unsure if they fully suit my requirements. I am specifically seeking a trustworthy free or paid solution for Windows 10, and possibly Windows 11 (as I may upgrade my system soon). The ideal tool would track my main music files and folders on the internal drive, automatically copying and transferring them to backup locations on both internal and external drives whenever files are updated from a CD rip, audio conversion, or playlist creation. It should also handle the simultaneous addition of new or updated files, folders, subfolders, and maintain the correct structure during these operations. Having such a program would significantly reduce the time needed to add new songs and albums. I would value recommendations for programs that offer these features if they exist.
In fact, you already have this in Windows with Robocopy. It offers parameters that allow it to check periodically, for example every few minutes, for various file versions between two directories. For handling multiple instances, you can use the cmd command within a batch file so both processes can operate at the same time.
If this is what you're seeking, there are multiple options available.
FreeFileSync and its RealTimeSync feature.
It tracks folders and transfers changes to another location.
How much data is involved?
Maybe a central NAS for storage.
Any of the popular NAS devices (Synology, QNAP) can copy files directly from the PC to the NAS... effortlessly or on request.
Is this really necessary to occur in almost real time?
Why must it be "automatic"?
Music file management is probably the biggest single purpose of my PC and has been for 20 years. I work on it 365 days a year; averaging a couple of hours a day.
I could never trust an automated procedure when I can do it manually with a click or two of the appropriate backup program.
I don't see any advantage in being lulled into complacency by a program said to be "automated" with something you (and I) have devoted thousands of hours to.
Automation may be a relatively low risk, but the consequences if your confidence is misplaced is enormous.
Even more important: don't rely on 1 backup, regardless of your decision.
I don't plan to depend entirely on automation. I still want to manually verify the folders and subfolders, like counting files between my music folder copies on both internal and external drives. I have four music folders in total—two on the internal drive and two on the external.
And I recommend thinking about using PowerShell.
The Get-ChildItem command serves as a good starting point.
You’ll find numerous other resources and examples there.
A handful of straightforward scripts that can be run through a desktop shortcut should handle most of your needs.
Any script you create can be adapted to unique situations and requirements.
You can take the cmdlets from the provided link (and others) and test them in a sandbox environment separate from your main data.
You won’t need extra software or tools.
Moreover, you retain complete control over the scripts and their functionality.
All you typically have to adjust is a folder name, set up a wildcard, or modify file extensions, etc.
In summary, start with several simple scripts rather than a long, complicated method.
As you grow more familiar with PowerShell and its cmdlets, you can build scripts that perform even greater tasks—potentially using input data when the script runs.
There are various tutorials and examples available online.
Some links include:
https://www.delftstack.com/howto/powersh...overwrite/
https://jdhitsolutions.com/blog/powershe...em-part-4/
https://enarion.net/news/2020/powershell...ip-backup/
Scripts can range from basic to advanced, depending on needs.
I favor using single-line cmdlets as they often suffice and are straightforward, especially for those new to coding or PowerShell.
You can adapt the example scripts to suit your needs—modify paths and names as required.
($sourceDir and $targetDir as presented in the third link.)
As before, set up a PowerShell test environment and proceed from there.
however, if you're comfortable with those tools, I recommend Robocopy or PowerShell (CLI-based). For a simpler approach, Goodsync and Gs Richcopy 360 are worth considering. Both can handle changes automatically, avoid re-copying entire folders, and transfer files in use to multiple destinations at once. They also offer GUI options.