14 DAY TRIAL // Windows Live FolderShare sounds like an excellent idea from Microsoft. The service under the Windows Live brand umbrella allows users to build private peer-to-peer networks and share and synchronize content. Microsoft permits file sharing without transfer and quantity limitations and sharing of materials up to 2 GB. Also, the Redmond company does not restrict the file types, allowing synchronization and transfer of content in native formats. Moreover, Windows Live FolderShare strives to be platform agnostic offering support for both Windows and Mac platforms.
"FolderShare allows you to create a private peer-to-peer network that will help you to synchronize files across multiple devices and access or share files with colleagues and friends. You no longer need to send large files via email, burn them to CDs/DVDs and mail them, or upload them to a website. FolderShare allows you to share and sync important information instantly with anyone you invite, making it the perfect solution for personal or small business use", Microsoft informed.
But this is where Windows Live FolderShare hits a rough spot. The service seems to be in perpetual beta and is virtually unusable by today's standards and using current technology. Windows Live FolderShare consists of two components, My FolderShare and a downloadable item dubbed FolderShare Satellite. But the system requirements are laughable. In order to access Windows Live FolderShare, users would need Windows 2000 / XP / 2003 or Mac OS X 10.3.8. And the service seems to be optimized for Internet Explorer 5.0, Firefox 1.0, Opera 7.x, Safari. In fact, the last time that FolderShare Satellite was updated is almost two years ago, all the way back in November 2005.
"Synchronize all your devices - Retrieve work files at home or access photos at work. With your devices in sync, you no longer have to be frustrated that your information is on another computer. Share files, photos, and home videos with your peers - Select the content you want to share, invite members, and they will be able to access the shared files directly from their device. Access your computer or device remotely - FolderShare mobile access allows you to access your computer from any web browser," reads a Microsoft invitation posted on the official website of FolderShare.
At this time, Windows Live FolderShare is still live, and still in beta, although Microsoft has completely failed to advance the service in over two years. Moreover, the company has recently introduced Windows live SkyDrive, also a Windows Live service aimed to provide anywhere access to files, but with the emphasis placed on storing content in Microsoft's operating system in the cloud.