by Steve Bennett
PCsync
Rating 89
These days, there’s more need than ever to copy files from one PC to another. Computers are replaced with greater frequency than in the past, and many of us must synchronize data with a laptop before or after hitting the road or working from home.
Of the many options for copying data, PCsync is particularly appealing. It’s easy to use, fast, and compatible with all current flavors of Windows and NT 4.0.
A single click invokes a wizard that makes it a snap to copy files to a new computer. The wizard searches for the most common types of data files and marks them for copying. Users can also indicate their own file types, so there’s little left to do in terms of moving data to the new machine.
PCsync also makes transferring files a breeze — simply establish a connection with the second PC via the included USB network or serial cables, mark the files or folders in the familiar Explorer-like interface, then drag them to the destination drive or folder. PCsync can also share folders over the Internet using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) connections.
A key component of PCsync is SmartXchange, which can save, edit, and automate transfers from a PC to a remote location. Each SmartXchange specifies the direction of the file transfer, rules for overwriting files, and other key parameters. By synchronizing files, users can keep a desktop and laptop up to date without manually moving them.
Finally, PCsync is designed to access an Internet drive. The main advantage of using PCsync is that users schedule automatic transfers and synchronizations using SmartXchange.
PCsync is an excellent way to reach out and transfer files from one machine to another.
LapLink.com
$49.95 for download; $79.95 for physical shipment
425-483-8088
www.laplink.com
Pros: A solid, easy-to-use set of file transfer/ migration tools
Cons: Poor documentation, and limited support for Internet drives