FreeFileSync Not Syncing New Files: Windows Checklist
Quick answer
When new files do not copy, first inspect folder paths, inclusion filters, comparison settings and the action preview; do not assume a successful-looking job copied the intended files.
Verify the selected folder pair
Open both paths in File Explorer and confirm a known new file exists in the source you selected. Network paths and external drives can change.
Check exclusions and filters
Review inclusion/exclusion rules and determine whether the sample file is omitted before you start the job.
Inspect comparison and direction
Run Compare and check whether the item appears and which side the action arrow points to. Update and Mirror do not behave the same as Two Way.
Prove the result
Copy a disposable sample, inspect the log, then open it from the destination. If the problem persists, test a new blank configuration.
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.