The level of comparison between the evaluated documents can be set manually by the user. File storage drives and folders can be compared at a considerable speed by setting the gauge to only check differences on file sizes and time of modification. The user may also use the byte-to-byte comparison method to perform an extensive verification of the similarities and differences of the assessed files. The Beyond Compare program can also manage files uploaded on File Transfer Protocol (FTP) sites and data archives compressed within zip files. These file managing features allow users to effortlessly update websites.
The Beyond Compare software has a wide variety of comparison solutions to different types of data. The interface to be used on the evaluated files is determined by its data format. Text files are subjected to editing rules specifically set for documents such as syntax highlighting and text content assessment. This type of comparison is very usable in checking Microsoft Word documents, source codes and Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) files. Specially devised viewers are used for compiled formats of data such as executable files, binary data and images. The built-in comparison viewer for data formats allows users to differentiate comma-separated values (CSV) and HTML tables. The Picture Compare interface provides a clear view of comparison between images. Other dedicated viewers are designed to compare hex files, audio formats and versions of executable files.
Recent releases of the Beyond Compare program incorporates color coding and section highlighting of the edited selections. This provides users to choose which modifications on the file are to be accepted. The Beyond Compare application can also be configured to favor modifications from a specified file to automatically accept changes throughout the entire document.
The synchronizing functions of the Beyond Compare application can be applicable on different file managing activities such as updating the system, creating data backups and managing websites. Recently applied changes can be automatically integrated to the file archives by using the synchronize feature of the application. It can also be utilized in copying files from disks, FTP sites and zip files. The Beyond Compare utility can also be programmed to perform repetitive actions by using a scripting language. Scripted commands can be set to allow the program’s activities to be scheduled on a definite period.