FileAudit vs PA File Sight

FileAudit monitors, alerts on, and reports access to files and folders across Windows file servers and supported cloud storage. On Windows, it records access events in real time and associates them with user accounts, IP addresses, and machine names. Alerts can flag denied access, deletions, or mass file events; predefined PowerShell scripts can be configured to block or log off a user. Reports cover NTFS permissions, permission changes, ownership, and file or folder properties. Cloud auditing is an add-on for services including OneDrive for Business, SharePoint Online, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive, Dropbox Business, and Box. It reads provider audit logs and collects activity metadata rather than file contents; connected services need a supported subscription plan and administrator authorization. Deployment is agentless, so the software need not be installed on the Windows server under audit. Reports are described as supporting GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and PCI-DSS. Requirements include Windows Server 2012 R2 or later, Windows 8.1 or later, and .NET Framework 4. The trial lasts 20 days and is limited to three servers. Pricing is based on an annual subscription determined by users and systems audited.

PA File Sight monitors file integrity, helps protect against ransomware, prevents data loss, and audits file access. It records who creates, reads, changes, moves, or deletes files and folders, with usernames, IP addresses, and computer names. For network-based ransomware, it uses honeypots, heuristics, and executable allow rules to detect and stop attacks. Real-time rules can identify file copying and block access to cloud folders or external drives. Lite and Ultra editions are available; Ultra adds historical reports and advanced alerts for copying activity or information leaks. The product is on-premises, keeping settings, databases, and network information on customer servers. An embedded database is the default, with Microsoft SQL Server as an alternative. Communications use SSL/TLS by default, while stored credentials are encrypted with Microsoft's CryptProtectData function. The central server and Satellite software require 64-bit Windows. The download includes a fully functional 30-day trial without a credit card or purchase. Listed prices include a 30.00 USD monthly Ultra subscription and perpetual licenses.