Duplicate file finders are software programs designed to make it easier to keep data organized. They work by scanning devices for files that contain data that duplicates the information found in other documents, images, videos, or even songs, and letting users know they have two of the same files so they can delete them quickly and easily. Read on to find out how to get started.
Step One: Download a Finder
The first step is to find a reputable duplicate file finder. Choose a program that is easy to use and takes up little space on the computer. When in doubt about whether a duplicate finder is a good fit, check the company’s website to make sure it’s legitimate and read through some reviews from other users.
Step Two: Run the Wizard
Good duplicate file finders make it easy to get the search started. They feature file finder wizards that walk users through each step of the process. Just specify what type of files to look for and where to check, then let the wizard pull up all the relevant information.
Step Three: Run the Scan
Next, the duplicate finder will scan the selected folders for relevant files using a specialized algorithm that guarantees 100% accuracy. The program will build a list of all the files, then compare their identifying features and send duplicates into separate groups for display.
Step Four: Preview the Files
Want to make sure all of the found files really are duplicates? Users should be able to preview them right in the file finder. They should also be able to export scan results and work with multiple file types.
Step Five: Deal with the Duplicates
Once users know what files are taking up unnecessary space on their computers, they can select all of them automatically or pick just a few to get rid of. They can then simply send the unwanted files to the trash, all at once, or move individual duplicates to other locations as needed before deleting the rest.
In many cases, users want to keep duplicates as backup files. A good file finder will make this easy by recognizing not just different folders on the computer, but also connected external media devices. Just select the files to be moved and specify the destination folder.
Step Six: Finish Getting Organized
Good duplicate finders allow users to customize them for easier use. They also incorporate additional software tools and options so that users can do things like create hashes for potential duplicate files or even get rid of invalid track references in music player programs like iTunes. Good file finders also allow users to undo unwanted actions without jumping through any hoops, so there’s no need to be scared of deleting necessary files.
The Bottom Line
With a good duplicate finder, the hardest part of getting organized is choosing the right program and downloading it to the computer. From there, the software program will take care of all the hard work, finding and displaying all the relevant files and ensuring that users don’t accidentally delete items they wanted to keep.
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is a former IT Manager who now runs his own computer support website https://www.compuchenna.co.uk.