FreeFileSync Folder Pair Missing or Wrong Drive: Fix Paths
Quick answer
A missing folder pair often means a disconnected external disk, changed drive letter, unavailable network share or different Windows account context.
Confirm the target actually exists
Inspect the exact left and right paths in File Explorer. A drive letter alone is not proof that the correct disk is connected.
Handle external and network paths
Reattach removable media or reconnect the share. Check volume label and the actual network location before synchronizing.
Check scheduled runs separately
Scheduled tasks may lack mapped drives visible in an interactive desktop session. Verify the task account and credentials.
Avoid destructive previews
If a missing path makes the destination appear empty, stop immediately rather than accepting Mirror deletions.
Before you run the job
Use disposable test folders for the first pass. Keep an independent copy of important files, confirm drive identities, and run Compare before Synchronize. A preview is not a substitute for checking the actual destination afterwards.
Related FreeFileSync Windows guides
Source and review notes
This guide explains a focused Windows workflow. Consult the current FreeFileSync developer manual for precise behavior and edition-specific options. Review each planned file operation and test with non-critical files before relying on a procedure.