Good Sync Backup Software

I consider myself an expert in the study of backup programs and backing up data from computers. In fact, some may say I speak of the subject too much. I recently had the opportunity to review a new backup program called Good Sync. It comes from Siber Systems; the same people who brought us Robo Form for filling out Internet forms.

Good Sync is a quick download (less than 10 minutes on even the slowest dial-up connection). It installs cleanly and quickly. One initial beef that I have with the installation is that it doesn't automatically insert itself into the Startup menu. I believe all backup programs need to start automatically.

When you first open the program, you are presented with a screen like the one pictured. You then create "Jobs" using the Job menu and selecting a source directory and a destination or 'sync' folder or drive to synchronize (backup to). For many computer users, this would present a problem immediately by not knowing how to navigate a folder tree and find the source of their important files through browsing. The target market for a backup program like this is the user who currently does no backup, so I believe the developers should provide a wizard interface to help guide the less experienced user to developing appropriate jobs.

Once a job is established, it is up to the computer user to initiate the analysis and backup of the selected folder and files. Good Sync does provide dialog boxes to encourage this next step. However, for future backups, it is up to the  user to initiate the backup. The Properties of a job are not readily available and must be accessed through a Right click or in the Job menu. The Properties allow users to pick when and how a synchronization should occur. This type of power should be available in the form of a button right on the main screen.

The actual sync process occurs rapidly and accurately. Reports can be provided to explain what exactly happened during the sync. I like the ability of the program to create multiple jobs and the fact that a job can synchronize to multiple destinations. Once set and properly configured, Good Sync does a nice job of protecting your valuable data.

Overall, I think Good Sync is a good product for more experienced computer users who aren't afraid of hunting for some of the powerful features available in this program. However, I also think experienced computer users already are familiar with backup and may use other tools. Good Sync has the potential to bring computer users who currently do not backup their files into the critical fold of backing up IF they can simplify the creation, use and scheduling of the actual backups.

Castellini on Computers Rating (1-5 mics)
Recommended Market:	Slightly Experienced Home or Small business Users
Approximate cost:	$20 for the Pro version, Free download for up 20,000 synchronizes per month
Company and Web Site:	Siber Systems, Inc