Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FileActivityWatch VS Directory Monitor

Compare FileActivityWatch VS Directory Monitor and see what are their differences

FileActivityWatch logo FileActivityWatch

FileAccessErrorView - Show file open / read / write / delete errors on Windows

Directory Monitor logo Directory Monitor

Monitor and detect who is making changes to your directories and network shares in real-time.
Not present
  • Directory Monitor Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-07-31

FileActivityWatch features and specs

  • Lightweight
    FileActivityWatch is a small and lightweight utility that does not require a lot of system resources to run, making it ideal for older or less powerful computers.
  • Portability
    The tool is portable and does not require installation, allowing users to run it directly from a USB stick or any other portable storage device.
  • Ease of Use
    The user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate, allowing users with varying levels of technical expertise to monitor file activities.
  • Real-Time Monitoring
    FileActivityWatch provides real-time monitoring of file activities, allowing users to see changes as they happen.
  • Freeware
    It is offered as freeware, providing users with full functionality without the need for a paid license.

Possible disadvantages of FileActivityWatch

  • Limited Features
    Compared to more advanced file monitoring tools, FileActivityWatch has a limited set of features and may not meet the needs of users requiring more comprehensive monitoring capabilities.
  • Windows Only
    The utility is only available for Windows platforms, which limits its use for those operating on macOS or Linux systems.
  • No GUI Customization
    The tool offers limited options for customizing the graphical user interface, which might be a drawback for users who prefer more personalized software environments.
  • No Official Support
    Being a freeware utility from a small developer, there is no official support channel for troubleshooting or detailed guidance.
  • Potential Security Risks
    As with any monitoring software, users need to be cautious about the security implications of running the utility, especially in environments with sensitive data.

Directory Monitor features and specs

  • Real-Time Monitoring
    Directory Monitor provides real-time tracking of changes to files and directories, allowing users to quickly respond to events such as modifications, deletions, or new files being added.
  • Customization Options
    The software offers numerous configuration options, enabling users to set specific monitoring criteria and receive alerts based on their unique needs.
  • Remote Monitoring
    Directory Monitor supports remote monitoring capabilities, allowing users to oversee directory changes over the network, which is beneficial for managing multiple systems.
  • Notification Features
    Users can receive notifications through various channels such as email or system messages, ensuring they are instantly informed of any changes.
  • Log Generation
    The software provides comprehensive logging of directory changes, allowing users to maintain historical records and audit trails for compliance or review purposes.

Possible disadvantages of Directory Monitor

  • Complex Setup
    Users may find the initial setup process challenging, especially if they are configuring advanced features or integrating with other systems.
  • Resource Intensive
    Directory Monitor can be resource-intensive, which may impact system performance, especially on computers with limited processing power or memory.
  • Cost
    The full version of the software may be costly for individual users or small businesses, which could make it less accessible for those with budget constraints.
  • Limited Free Version
    While a free version is available, it offers limited features compared to the paid version, which may not meet the needs of all users.
  • Learning Curve
    Due to its extensive features and options, there may be a learning curve for new users, requiring time and effort to fully understand and utilize the software's capabilities.

FileActivityWatch videos

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Directory Monitor videos

Directory Monitor

More videos:

  • Review - Directory Monitor 2.10.5.2 Trial

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FileActivityWatch and Directory Monitor)
Image Optimisation
74 74%
26% 26
Note Taking
72 72%
28% 28
File Management
100 100%
0% 0
Computer Monitoring Software

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Directory Monitor seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 3 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

FileActivityWatch mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of FileActivityWatch yet. Tracking of FileActivityWatch recommendations started around Dec 2023.

Directory Monitor mentions (3)

  • How to take care of your PC?
    If you really have to install trash in your PC, use the combination of https://directorymonitor.com/ and http://p-nand-q.com/download/regdiff.html to keep track of where the program added files, and what registry keys it added or modified, so you can revert them. Source: over 3 years ago
  • What is everyone doing for file server file/folder auditing?
    I purchased a copy of Directory Monitor (directorymonitor.com). Source: about 4 years ago
  • [Princess Trainer] How do you completely reset the game?
    You can use a program called Directory Monitor to pinpoint exactly where changes are being made on your computer. I use whenever I need to locate a save file for any game. You just start it up, make a save in the game, and it will show you where the file was created or modified. Source: about 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FileActivityWatch and Directory Monitor, you can also consider the following products

File Juggler - File Juggler is a Windows utility for automatic file management.

Folder Monitor - FolderMonitor helps you monitor what happens in a folder.

FolderChangesView - FolderChangesView is a simple tool that monitors the folder or disk drive that you choose and lists every filename that is being modified, created, or deleted while the folder is being monitored

FSMonitor - FSMonitor is a macOS app that monitors all changes in the file system, including file creation...

Free folder monitor - Free file monitor software - free file monitor to record the system changes in real-time, investigating exactly what files/folders have been altered, created or removed.

File Watcher Utlities - File system/directory monitoring utilities with loggin and task processing support (can execute...