Benefits of Compare Folder Tools

Compare folder tools can be easily downloaded from various online software application vendors. But what exactly are these tools for? And why do many users consider them indispensable?

Compare folder tools are software applications that can be used to compare two folders that may or may not contain various files. In the context of computers, a folder is an electronic object where multiple electronic documents can be kept. These folders are often used for the purpose of organizing information. In DOS and UNIX operating systems, folders are termed directories. Compare folder tools are programmed to identify which of the files contained in the compared folders are new and which of them have already been modified. This saves the user from the hassle of individually opening and looking over each of these documents. Compare functions are generally done in three stages which begins in the creation of file lists contained in folders. These file lists are then compared. Subsequently, contents of files that have common file names are compared. These comparison utilities are especially useful when a user has multiple copies of certain folders. By using these tools, files that needed to be kept are identified. These files can then be renamed and reorganized for future reference.

Typically, these compare folder tools utilize a customized comparison algorithm that is based on the user's chosen settings. They are programmed to look at the attributes of the items being compared. They determine the differences in items compared. These differences are then sorted and comparison result is displayed to guide the user. Some compare folder applications perform comparison functions based on text which make them effective in comparing different files in various encoding formats, be they HTML files, binary files, Microsoft Word documents or Excel spreadsheets. Some of these tools are also equipped with automatic synchronization software which allows the merging of the contents of common files. A user may also choose what action to take after the files have been compared and differences are identified. The user can choose to copy or restore certain files while the others could be moved or immediately deleted. The resulting files could also be programmed so that they would appear in the Get Info or Finder features. Other compare folder versions also allow a user to print the contents of the files being scrutinized. This feature benefits those who want to have hard copies of their electronic files.

Compare folder tools can be used by just about anybody since they can be integrated into any workflow. They can be used by web designers, computer software engineers or software developers since these people usually keep track of new and modified files concerning an ongoing project. Nevertheless, if there is an established need for this kind of utility, make sure that the software you have chosen is compatible with your operating system. Reading user reviews of certain compare folder tools will definitely be helpful. Moreover, time trial versions could be availed of to take advantage of free use of software application at no cost.