Activity Monitoring Software

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Buyer's guide - what to look for in Activity Monitoring software

While the web is an incredibly rich resource, it can also be both a distraction and a danger. From malicious websites ready to deploy spyware and viruses to the dangers of chat rooms, our family, relationships and even entire businesses are under threat.

Monitoring software (also know as spy or snooper software) will record all internet activity, keystrokes, chat room conversations and downloads. Some titles present the data collected in report format, where others let you view a users screen in real time.

The key features of any Spy or Snooper software are:

• Type of activities recorded - make sure that the activity you are most interested in can be captured, whether that be email or IM activity or web surfing.


• Remote monitoring - most titles allow for some kind of remote monitoring, but check that you understand how it works. Some work via FTP, while others provide a web based login.


• Stealth mode - track activity without the users knowledge by running silently in the background, disguised as another system process. Also look out for programs that can be deployed in stealth mode remotely by disguising the install file as a common looking file such as Excel spreadsheet or Powerpoint presentation.


• Multiple licences for business - if you are deploying on a small network or in a large business, make sure the software produces reports identifies the machine or user account in question, and that there are bulk discounts for multiple licences.


• Help and support - As with all software, sometimes you will require assistance. Whether it's a lost software key or software failure you should look for a responsive vendor. Comprehensive online help files or an active user forum are a must. Telephone or live-chat support are also recommended.

Some software comes with advanced features that blur the lines into other categories of PC utilities. Look out for:

• Counter anti-spyware protection - Anti-spyware programs should try to eliminate monitoring software. Good programs will protect themselves from being detected via regular updates to their protection systems.


• Memory erasers, file locks etc - to protect the information you don't want users to find.

This software should be used responsibly. Consider why you are using it and what you are hoping to find, and whether you really need to know the answer to the latter!

Most software titles in this category will offer a free trial and therefore would encourage you to try before you buy.