freefilesync.exe

What is freefilesync.exe?

freefilesync.exe is the executable for the FreeFileSync file synchronization tool. FreeFileSync compares directories, detects differences, and copies, updates, or deletes files to keep locations in sync. It supports two‑way and mirror sync, batch jobs, and customizable filters.

FreeFileSync uses a synchronization engine that scans metadata, file sizes, and timestamps to determine changes. It runs as a GUI app and may spawn lightweight worker tasks to perform copying and moving operations during a sync.

Types of FreeFileSync Processes

• Main GUI Process: Displays the user interface and coordinates scan and sync tasks
• Scan/Compare Worker: Scans source and destination folders to detect differences
• Copy/Move Worker: Performs file copy, move, and delete operations during sync
• Background Monitor (Optional): Real-time folder monitoring if Real-time Sync is enabled
• Log/Status Helper: Writes logs and displays progress updates
• Sync Engine Service (Optional): Can operate as a scheduled task or service for automation

Is freefilesync.exe Safe?

Yes, freefilesync.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from FreeFileSync downloaded from official sources (freefilesync.org) or distributed by the FreeFileSync project.

Is freefilesync.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real freefilesync.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware may disguise itself with similar names. Verify signers and paths.

How to Tell if freefilesync.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\FreeFileSync\FreeFileSync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\FreeFileSync\FreeFileSync.exe. Any other location is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show signer "FreeFileSync Team" or project publisher.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-10% CPU per active sync task, memory 20-150 MB. High idle usage is suspicious.
4. Behavior: FreeFileSync should run during a sync task or while the GUI is open. Persistent background execution when idle may indicate malware.

Why Is freefilesync.exe Running on My PC?

freefilesync.exe runs when you start a FreeFileSync job or when a scheduled or real-time sync task is configured to monitor folders and perform operations.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Sync or Batch Job: You launched a sync task or a batch job; the app runs to compare folders and copy changes.
• Real-time or Scheduled Sync: Real-time Sync or a Windows Task Scheduler entry may keep the process running to monitor changes.
• Startup or Logon: FreeFileSync or a related task is configured to launch at Windows startup.
• Background File Monitoring: Folder monitoring features can trigger the engine when file changes are detected.
• External Script Trigger: A script or automation tool calls FreeFileSync with a job file (FFSJob*.ffs_batch) to perform a sync.

Can I Disable or Remove freefilesync.exe?

Yes, you can disable FreeFileSync. It's safe to close FreeFileSync when not in use, and you can uninstall it or disable its startup/monitoring to stop it from launching automatically.

How to Stop freefilesync.exe

• Close the Application: Close the FreeFileSync GUI if open
• End Task in Task Manager: Open Task Manager, locate freefilesync.exe, and End Task
• Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable FreeFileSync
• Disable Real-time / Auto-sync: In FreeFileSync, disable Real-time Sync or scheduled jobs
• Remove or Reconfigure Jobs: Edit FFSJob files or clear batch tasks

How to Uninstall FreeFileSync

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → FreeFileSync → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → FreeFileSync
• ✔ Consider alternative sync tools if needed

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If freefilesync.exe is consuming excessive resources during a sync operation or while idle, try these steps.

Common Causes & Solutions

• Too Many Files or Large Folders: Limit the scope of the sync with filters, and exclude unnecessary subfolders.
• Binary vs Timestamp Checks: Switch from binary comparison to date/size for speed, or adjust filters to reduce checks.
• Real-time Sync Enabled: Disable Real-time Sync or configure less aggressive monitoring.
• Background Scanning by Antivirus: Temporarily exclude FreeFileSync from antivirus scanning or set exclusions.
• Outdated Version: Update FreeFileSync to the latest version from the official site.
• Sync to Slow Network Drive: Run the sync locally or ensure network speed; adjust batch size.

Related Processes