Free Tool to synchronize files and folders

SyncToy 2.1 is a free application that synchronizes files and folders between locations. Typical uses include sharing files, with other computers and creating backup copies of files and folders.

In project environments, where data feeds are received in the form of files, in a development environment such tools are quite helpful. Also for general content management, having one such tool which is also FREE is a big boon. Below in an excerpt from the download page:

In some cases it is necessary to regularly get copies of files from another location to add to primary location; in other cases there is a need to keep two storage locations exactly in sync. Some users manage files manually, dragging and dropping from one place to another and keeping track of whether the locations are synchronized in their heads. Other users may use two or more applications to provide this functionality.

Now there is an easier way. SyncToy, a free PowerToy for Microsoft Windows, is an easy to use, highly customizable program that helps users to do the heavy lifting involved with the copying, moving, and synchronization of different directories. Most common operations can be performed with just a few clicks of the mouse, and additional customization is available without additional complexity. SyncToy can manage multiple sets of folders at the same time; it can combine files from two folders in one case, and mimic renames and deletes in another case. Unlike other applications, SyncToy actually keeps track of renames to files and will make sure those changes get carried over to the synchronized folder.